Dairyland Reservoir — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Dairyland Reservoir, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Dairyland Reservoir today is 17.9°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| SEP 14 | 19.8°C | 18.0°C | |
| SEP 15 | 18.7°C | 18.0°C | |
| SEP 16 | 18.6°C | 18.0°C | |
| SEP 17 | 18.9°C | 18.0°C | |
| SEP 18 | 18.0°C | 18.0°C | |
| SEP 19 | 18.2°C | 18.0°C | |
| SEP 20 | 17.6°C | 18.0°C | |
| SEP 21 | 17.9°C | 18.0°C | |
| SEP 22 | 18.0°C | 17.9°C | |
| SEP 23 | 18.0°C | 17.9°C | |
| SEP 24 | 18.0°C | 17.9°C | |
| SEP 25 | 18.0°C | 17.9°C | |
| SEP 26 | 18.0°C | 17.9°C | |
| SEP 27 | 18.0°C | 17.9°C | |
| SEP 28 | 18.0°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 | 3°C | 6°C |
| February | 0°C | 3°C | 6°C |
| March | 0°C | 3°C | 6°C |
| April | 1°C | 6°C | 12°C |
| May | 7°C | 13°C | 20°C |
| June | 15°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| July | 19°C | 23°C | 27°C |
| August | 18°C | 24°C | 30°C |
| September | 14°C | 18°C | 22°C |
| October | 9°C | 14°C | 18°C |
| November | 3°C | 9°C | 13°C |
| December | 0°C | 2°C | 5°C |
Dairyland Reservoir: Water Temperature by Location
Dairyland Reservoir: Weather Forecast
September 21
September 22
September 23
September 24
September 25
Location & Local Information
Dairyland Reservoir in Wisconsin typically follows the seasonal temperature patterns of inland reservoirs in the region. During winter the surface can approach freezing, around 32°F (0°C) or lower under extended cold spells when ice forms. In spring temperatures rise gradually; surface water commonly ranges from roughly 40–60°F (4–15°C) as snowmelt and runoff cool the basin. By summer the warmest months often see surface temperatures in the neighborhood of 68–78°F (20–26°C), although deeper water remains noticeably cooler. In fall the reservoir cools back through the 50s and 40s °F (10–5°C) as air temperatures drop and stratification breaks down. These ranges will vary from year to year with weather, depth, and local inflows.
Swimming at Dairyland Reservoir is generally possible in accessible, designated areas but is subject to local rules and safety considerations. Because it is a managed reservoir, some shorelines may be private or posted and sections near inlets, outlets, or dam structures can have strong currents, cold-water upwellings and submerged hazards that make swimming unsafe. Water quality and temperature—especially cold shock risk in spring or after heavy rain—are practical reasons authorities may restrict access. Visitors should follow posted signs and local guidance; permitted swimming is typically allowed where lifeguards, clear access, and suitable water conditions are provided.