Columbia Road Reservoir — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Columbia Road Reservoir, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Columbia Road Reservoir today is 12.4°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 54°F (12°C) to 60°F (15°C). The water is significantly warmer, and swimming becomes possible for most people. However, caution may still be required for prolonged stays in the water, as extended exposure can cause discomfort. This is a suitable temperature range for short swims and for those accustomed to cooler water. For more comfortable swimming, it is recommended to use proper gear. It is important to note that these swimming tips and recommendations apply only in good weather. When the air temperature is below 68°F (20°C), and sometimes even below 77°F (25°C), swimming can be unpleasant even with relatively high water temperatures.
Water Temperature Chart Over the Last 30 Days
Table of Daily Sea Temperature Data
| Date | Current | Average | Forecast |
|---|---|---|---|
| OCT 5 | 13.9°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 6 | 13.3°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 7 | 12.5°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 8 | 12.7°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 9 | 11.9°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 10 | 11.6°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 11 | 10.5°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 11.8°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 13 | 11.5°C | 12.4°C | |
| OCT 14 | 11.5°C | 12.3°C | |
| OCT 15 | 11.5°C | 12.3°C | |
| OCT 16 | 11.5°C | 12.2°C | |
| OCT 17 | 11.5°C | 12.2°C | |
| OCT 18 | 11.5°C | 12.1°C | |
| OCT 19 | 11.5°C | 12.1°C |
* Current - Actual water temperature value
** Average - Average water temperature on this day in recent years
*** Forecast - Our water temperature forecast
Actual nearshore water temperatures may fluctuate by several degrees from the reported values, especially following heavy rainfall or extended periods of strong winds. Certain wind patterns can cause colder, deeper waters to rise and replace the sun-warmed surface water, leading to noticeable variations.
Our forecast is based on a proprietary mathematical model that considers real-time water temperature changes, historical trends, key weather patterns, wind strength and direction, and air temperature specific to each region. Additionally, we incorporate data from other resorts to enhance accuracy.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 0°C | 6°C | 12°C |
| February | 0°C | 8°C | 15°C |
| March | 0°C | 9°C | 17°C |
| April | 3°C | 12°C | 20°C |
| May | 7°C | 14°C | 21°C |
| June | 15°C | 20°C | 24°C |
| July | 17°C | 23°C | 29°C |
| August | 20°C | 24°C | 28°C |
| September | 17°C | 21°C | 25°C |
| October | 5°C | 12°C | 18°C |
| November | 3°C | 6°C | 9°C |
| December | 3°C | 7°C | 11°C |
Columbia Road Reservoir: Water Temperature by Location
Columbia Road Reservoir: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
Location & Local Information
Columbia Road Reservoir in South Dakota experiences a strong seasonal cycle in water temperature. In winter the surface is often at or just below freezing, roughly 32°F (0°C) and commonly ice-covered; late winter and early spring can see temperatures in the high 30s to low 40s °F (3–6°C) as ice breaks up. Spring warming typically brings the reservoir into the 40–60°F range (4–16°C), while summer surface temperatures commonly reach about 68–80°F (20–27°C), with occasional mid‑summer peaks into the low 80s °F (27–28°C) on hot days. By fall the water cools back down through the 50s and 60s °F (10–18°C) before refreezing.
Swimming at Columbia Road Reservoir is generally possible during the warmer months when surface temperatures are comfortable, but whether it is allowed depends on local regulations and conditions. Many small reservoirs permit recreational swimming in summer because temperatures rise into a comfortable range, yet signage, public health advisories, or management rules can restrict access for safety, water‑quality concerns (algal blooms or bacterial levels), or during ice cover. Even when swimming is permitted, swimmers should be cautious about sudden cold layers, underwater hazards, and rapidly changing weather; water below about 60°F (15°C) can feel cold and increase risk of hypothermia.