Cowan Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Cowan Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Cowan Lake today is 13.8°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 26 | 15.8°C | 20.5°C | |
| OCT 27 | 15.6°C | 20.5°C | |
| OCT 28 | 15.8°C | 20.5°C | |
| OCT 29 | 16.3°C | 20.5°C | |
| OCT 30 | 15.0°C | 20.5°C | |
| OCT 31 | 15.1°C | 20.5°C | |
| NOV 1 | 15.8°C | 13.3°C | |
| NOV 2 | 13.8°C | 13.3°C | |
| NOV 3 | 13.3°C | 13.8°C | |
| NOV 4 | 13.3°C | 13.8°C | |
| NOV 5 | 13.3°C | 13.7°C | |
| NOV 6 | 13.3°C | 13.7°C | |
| NOV 7 | 13.3°C | 13.7°C | |
| NOV 8 | 13.3°C | 13.7°C | |
| NOV 9 | 13.3°C | 13.6°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 | 2°C | 8°C | 14°C |
| February | 1°C | 9°C | 16°C |
| March | 2°C | 11°C | 19°C |
| April | 7°C | 14°C | 20°C |
| May | 14°C | 18°C | 22°C |
| June | 18°C | 21°C | 24°C |
| July | 18°C | 23°C | 28°C |
| August | 22°C | 25°C | 28°C |
| September | 21°C | 24°C | 27°C |
| October | 17°C | 21°C | 24°C |
| November | 7°C | 13°C | 19°C |
| December | 2°C | 7°C | 12°C |
Cowan Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Cowan Lake: Weather Forecast
November 3
November 4
November 5
November 6
November 7
November 8
Location & Local Information
Cowan Lake experiences typical Midwestern seasonal water temperatures. In winter the surface often approaches near-freezing conditions, roughly 33–40°F (0.5–4°C). During spring the lake warms through the thermally mixed period, commonly ranging from about 45–65°F (7–18°C) as air temperatures rise and runoff decreases. Peak summer surface temperatures are usually in the mid-70s to low-80s Fahrenheit, roughly 24–28°C, especially in shallow areas and on calm, sunny days; deeper pockets remain cooler. In autumn the water cools again, generally falling back to the 50–65°F range (10–18°C) as days shorten and winds increase mixing.
Swimming at Cowan Lake is possible during the warmer months, but use is governed by safety and water-quality considerations rather than constant lifeguarded supervision. There is no guarantee of a staffed beach, and managers may place temporary advisories or closures if testing shows elevated bacteria, visible harmful algal blooms, or unsafe conditions like strong currents or debris. Because temperatures can change quickly with weather and depth, swimmers should be cautious about cold-water shock in spring and fall and heed posted signs and park guidance to determine when swimming is advisable.