Crab Orchard Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Crab Orchard Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Crab Orchard Lake today is 19.4°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 65°F (18°C) to 68°F (20°C). This is already quite warm water, which is ideal for most people. Swimming becomes comfortable, and prolonged stays in the water do not cause discomfort. This temperature is perfect for family trips and for those who prefer warmer water. It is also comfortable for water sports such as surfing or swimming. 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 | 22.0°C | 21.0°C | |
| OCT 6 | 21.6°C | 21.0°C | |
| OCT 7 | 21.6°C | 21.0°C | |
| OCT 8 | 20.6°C | 21.0°C | |
| OCT 9 | 20.3°C | 21.0°C | |
| OCT 10 | 21.3°C | 21.0°C | |
| OCT 11 | 20.4°C | 21.0°C | |
| OCT 12 | 20.6°C | 21.0°C | |
| OCT 13 | 21.0°C | 19.5°C | |
| OCT 14 | 21.0°C | 19.6°C | |
| OCT 15 | 21.0°C | 19.6°C | |
| OCT 16 | 21.0°C | 19.7°C | |
| OCT 17 | 21.0°C | 19.8°C | |
| OCT 18 | 21.0°C | 19.9°C | |
| OCT 19 | 21.0°C | 20.0°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 | 4°C | 7°C |
| February | 1°C | 4°C | 6°C |
| March | 2°C | 7°C | 13°C |
| April | 8°C | 14°C | 20°C |
| May | 15°C | 19°C | 23°C |
| June | 20°C | 25°C | 29°C |
| July | 25°C | 28°C | 31°C |
| August | 24°C | 27°C | 30°C |
| September | 24°C | 27°C | 30°C |
| October | 17°C | 21°C | 25°C |
| November | 10°C | 14°C | 17°C |
| December | 4°C | 7°C | 10°C |
Crab Orchard Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Crab Orchard Lake: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
October 18
Location & Local Information
Crab Orchard Lake, a large reservoir in southern Illinois, experiences typical Midwestern seasonal swings in surface water temperature. In winter months the lake commonly chills to near freezing, roughly 32–39°F (0–4°C). As spring progresses temperatures climb into the 40–60°F range (4–15°C), with late spring warming accelerating. Summer surface temperatures frequently reach the 70–80°F band (21–27°C) and can spike into the low- to mid-80s (around 28–29°C) during heat waves. By autumn the water cools again to roughly 50–65°F (10–18°C) as air temperatures fall and turnover begins. Deeper parts of the reservoir remain cooler year-round, so conditions vary by location and depth.
Swimming at Crab Orchard Lake is permitted in certain areas but subject to restrictions and seasonal advisories, so it is not universally open for recreational bathing at all times. Management actions, posted signage and periodic water-quality or algal-bloom notices influence access; there are also no statewide lifeguards on the lake, so most swimming is at visitors’ own risk. Authorities may close or discourage swimming for public-safety reasons such as poor water quality, harmful algal blooms, submerged hazards, or frigid temperatures. Visitors should follow posted rules, check local advisories before entering the water, and be cautious about sudden depth changes and cold-water immersion.