Council Bluff Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Council Bluff Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Council Bluff Lake today is 16.8°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 60°F (15°C) to 65°F (18°C). The water is comfortable for most people, making it an ideal range for water sports enthusiasts. The temperature does not cause significant discomfort, and swimming will be pleasant for the majority. However, it's important to remember that prolonged exposure to the water can still lead to cooling, so it's essential to monitor the time spent in the water, especially for children or elderly people. 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 | 18.5°C | 20.0°C | |
| OCT 6 | 18.3°C | 20.0°C | |
| OCT 7 | 18.3°C | 20.0°C | |
| OCT 8 | 17.7°C | 20.0°C | |
| OCT 9 | 18.0°C | 20.0°C | |
| OCT 10 | 17.2°C | 20.0°C | |
| OCT 11 | 18.0°C | 20.0°C | |
| OCT 12 | 17.1°C | 20.0°C | |
| OCT 13 | 20.0°C | 17.0°C | |
| OCT 14 | 20.0°C | 17.1°C | |
| OCT 15 | 20.0°C | 17.3°C | |
| OCT 16 | 20.0°C | 17.4°C | |
| OCT 17 | 20.0°C | 17.6°C | |
| OCT 18 | 20.0°C | 17.8°C | |
| OCT 19 | 20.0°C | 17.9°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 | 4°C | 9°C |
| February | 1°C | 5°C | 9°C |
| March | 4°C | 10°C | 15°C |
| April | 10°C | 15°C | 20°C |
| May | 15°C | 22°C | 28°C |
| June | 19°C | 25°C | 30°C |
| July | 22°C | 29°C | 35°C |
| August | 23°C | 28°C | 32°C |
| September | 22°C | 27°C | 31°C |
| October | 16°C | 20°C | 24°C |
| November | 8°C | 14°C | 20°C |
| December | 4°C | 8°C | 11°C |
Council Bluff Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Council Bluff Lake: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
October 18
Location & Local Information
Council Bluff Lake in Missouri experiences the same seasonal swings in surface water temperature common to Midwestern reservoirs. In spring the lake typically warms from roughly 50–65°F (10–18°C) as air temperatures rise and stratification begins. Peak summer surface temperatures often range from about 70–85°F (21–29°C), with shallow bays warming fastest and deeper parts staying several degrees cooler. During fall the water usually cools to about 55–70°F (13–21°C) before full turnover, and in winter the lake can drop into the mid 30s to mid 40s °F (1–7°C), occasionally approaching freezing at the surface in prolonged cold snaps. These are typical, seasonal ranges; exact temperatures vary by year, weather, depth, and time of day.
Swimming at Council Bluff Lake is generally allowed in designated areas when conditions are safe, but policies and on-site facilities determine access. Park managers may place seasonal restrictions or close swimming areas for reasons such as harmful algal blooms, high bacterial counts, low water levels, hazardous debris, or lack of lifeguards. Because surface warmth can be deceptive, swimmers should be cautious about sudden cold water in deeper sections and follow posted signs, local advisories, and any rules set by the managing authority to ensure safety.