Dale Maffit Reservoir — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Dale Maffit Reservoir, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Dale Maffit Reservoir today is 16.1°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| OCT 5 | 17.8°C | 18.0°C | |
| OCT 6 | 17.6°C | 18.0°C | |
| OCT 7 | 16.9°C | 18.0°C | |
| OCT 8 | 16.8°C | 18.0°C | |
| OCT 9 | 17.3°C | 18.0°C | |
| OCT 10 | 16.9°C | 18.0°C | |
| OCT 11 | 16.7°C | 18.0°C | |
| OCT 12 | 16.4°C | 18.0°C | |
| OCT 13 | 18.0°C | 16.2°C | |
| OCT 14 | 18.0°C | 16.3°C | |
| OCT 15 | 18.0°C | 16.4°C | |
| OCT 16 | 18.0°C | 16.5°C | |
| OCT 17 | 18.0°C | 16.6°C | |
| OCT 18 | 18.0°C | 16.7°C | |
| OCT 19 | 18.0°C | 16.8°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 | 1°C | 4°C |
| February | 0°C | 3°C | 5°C |
| March | 1°C | 6°C | 12°C |
| April | 6°C | 11°C | 17°C |
| May | 10°C | 16°C | 22°C |
| June | 18°C | 23°C | 27°C |
| July | 23°C | 30°C | 36°C |
| August | 23°C | 26°C | 29°C |
| September | 21°C | 24°C | 27°C |
| October | 13°C | 18°C | 23°C |
| November | 0°C | 8°C | 15°C |
| December | 0°C | 3°C | 5°C |
Dale Maffit Reservoir: Water Temperature by Location
Dale Maffit Reservoir: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
Location & Local Information
The lake at Dale Maffitt Reservoir in Iowa experiences pronounced seasonal changes in water temperature. In spring the surface water is typically cold, often ranging from roughly 40–60°F (4–16°C) as snowmelt and cool rains keep temperatures low. Summer brings the warmest conditions, with surface temperatures frequently climbing into the 70–85°F range (21–29°C) in shallower, sun-exposed areas, while deeper zones remain cooler. During fall the water cools again, commonly sitting between about 50–65°F (10–18°C) as air temperatures drop, and in winter the reservoir can approach freezing, with surface temperatures near 32–40°F (0–4°C) and ice forming at times depending on weather.
Swimming at Dale Maffitt is generally restricted because the reservoir serves as a municipal water supply and is managed to protect water quality and public safety. Prohibitions on entering the water help reduce contamination risks and limit hazards associated with currents, cold temperatures, and submerged structures. Visitors are encouraged to observe posted rules and use designated recreation areas and boat launches as allowed; where swimming is explicitly prohibited, that restriction is intended to safeguard both drinking-water integrity and swimmer safety.