Cultus Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Cultus Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Cultus Lake 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 | 13.0°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 6 | 13.3°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 7 | 13.6°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 8 | 13.3°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 9 | 13.5°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 10 | 13.0°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 11 | 12.9°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 12 | 12.6°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 13 | 15.0°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 14 | 15.0°C | 12.7°C | |
| OCT 15 | 15.0°C | 12.8°C | |
| OCT 16 | 15.0°C | 12.9°C | |
| OCT 17 | 15.0°C | 13.1°C | |
| OCT 18 | 15.0°C | 13.2°C | |
| OCT 19 | 15.0°C | 13.3°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 | 8°C |
| February | 1°C | 5°C | 8°C |
| March | 4°C | 8°C | 11°C |
| April | 6°C | 11°C | 15°C |
| May | 9°C | 15°C | 21°C |
| June | 12°C | 18°C | 24°C |
| July | 15°C | 23°C | 31°C |
| August | 16°C | 23°C | 30°C |
| September | 15°C | 21°C | 26°C |
| October | 10°C | 15°C | 20°C |
| November | 6°C | 11°C | 14°C |
| December | 4°C | 7°C | 9°C |
Cultus Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Cultus Lake: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
Location & Local Information
Cultus Lake in Washington is a relatively cool, high-elevation lake, so water temperatures vary a lot through the year. In late summer, surface temperatures commonly warm into the mid-50s to mid-60s °F (about 13–19 °C) on sunny days and occasionally approach the lower 70s °F (around 21–22 °C) in shallow, sheltered spots. Spring and fall bring much colder conditions, with typical water temperatures in the 40s to low 50s °F (roughly 4–11 °C). In winter the lake can approach freezing in shallow areas and may be near 33–40 °F (1–4 °C) where ice or slush occurs; even when not frozen, deeper water remains very cold year-round.
Swimming in Cultus Lake is generally allowed and popular during the warmest weeks of summer because the lake is managed for recreation and provides easy shoreline access. Visitors should take caution: there are often no lifeguards, weather and water temperature can change rapidly, and even summer water can feel brisk compared with ocean or lowland lakes. Cold-water shock and hypothermia risk mean short swims, wetsuits, and staying near shore are prudent when temperatures are below the comfortable range. Local park rules or temporary advisories may also limit swimming for safety or water-quality reasons.