Crane Prairie Reservoir — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Crane Prairie Reservoir, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Crane Prairie Reservoir today is 17.3°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| AUG 24 | 18.1°C | 21.2°C | |
| AUG 25 | 15.3°C | 21.2°C | |
| AUG 26 | 15.3°C | 21.2°C | |
| AUG 27 | 15.3°C | 21.2°C | |
| AUG 28 | 16.1°C | 21.2°C | |
| AUG 29 | 17.9°C | 21.2°C | |
| AUG 30 | 17.9°C | 21.2°C | |
| AUG 31 | 17.3°C | 21.2°C | |
| SEP 1 | 19.0°C | 17.4°C | |
| SEP 2 | 19.0°C | 17.5°C | |
| SEP 3 | 19.0°C | 17.6°C | |
| SEP 4 | 19.0°C | 17.6°C | |
| SEP 5 | 19.0°C | 17.7°C | |
| SEP 6 | 19.0°C | 17.8°C | |
| SEP 7 | 19.0°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 | 2°C | 4°C |
| February | 0°C | 2°C | 4°C |
| March | 1°C | 4°C | 7°C |
| April | 3°C | 9°C | 15°C |
| May | 4°C | 13°C | 21°C |
| June | 9°C | 16°C | 23°C |
| July | 14°C | 20°C | 26°C |
| August | 15°C | 21°C | 27°C |
| September | 16°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| October | 9°C | 13°C | 16°C |
| November | 2°C | 6°C | 9°C |
| December | 0°C | 2°C | 5°C |
Crane Prairie Reservoir: Water Temperature by Location
Crane Prairie Reservoir: Weather Forecast
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Location & Local Information
Crane Prairie Reservoir, sitting on the high desert plateau of central Oregon, has water temperatures that vary markedly through the year. In winter the surface can drop to around 30–40°F (-1 to 4°C) and the reservoir can develop surface ice during cold spells. Spring typically brings a gradual warming into the mid 40s to mid 50s°F (7–13°C) as snowmelt and inflows raise levels. Peak summer surface temperatures generally range from roughly 55–70°F (13–21°C) on warm afternoons, though deeper water remains noticeably colder. By fall the lake cools again into the 45–60°F (7–16°C) band as air temperatures decline and stratification breaks down.
Swimming is permitted because Crane Prairie is a public reservoir with shoreline access, but there are no widely posted lifeguard services or formal swimming facilities, so users swim at their own risk. Important considerations include cold-water shock even in summer, boat traffic, submerged timber and rocky drop-offs, and the potential for aquatic weeds or periodic water-quality advisories that can limit safe recreation. Visitors planning to swim generally exercise caution, use flotation when appropriate, and monitor local conditions before entering the water.