Damariscotta Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Damariscotta Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Damariscotta Lake today is 13.9°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 | 17.5°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 6 | 16.1°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 7 | 16.0°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 8 | 16.2°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 9 | 15.1°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 10 | 15.1°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 11 | 15.3°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 14.8°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 13 | 15.5°C | 14.0°C | |
| OCT 14 | 15.5°C | 14.1°C | |
| OCT 15 | 15.5°C | 14.1°C | |
| OCT 16 | 15.5°C | 14.2°C | |
| OCT 17 | 15.5°C | 14.3°C | |
| OCT 18 | 15.5°C | 14.4°C | |
| OCT 19 | 15.5°C | 14.5°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 | 2°C | 4°C |
| March | 0°C | 2°C | 5°C |
| April | 2°C | 5°C | 8°C |
| May | 7°C | 11°C | 15°C |
| June | 12°C | 16°C | 20°C |
| July | 19°C | 24°C | 29°C |
| August | 20°C | 23°C | 27°C |
| September | 21°C | 23°C | 26°C |
| October | 10°C | 16°C | 21°C |
| November | 4°C | 9°C | 14°C |
| December | 0°C | 3°C | 6°C |
Damariscotta Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Damariscotta Lake: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
Location & Local Information
Damariscotta Lake in central coastal Maine experiences large seasonal swings in surface water temperature. In spring the lake typically runs cold, often from roughly 35–55°F (2–13°C) as ice melts and the water stratifies. Summer brings the warmest conditions, with surface temperatures commonly in the 65–78°F range (18–26°C) and occasionally climbing into the low 80s°F (27–28°C) in shallow bays on hot, calm days. Early fall sees a gradual cooling, with surface temps dropping back toward 50–60°F (10–16°C) by October. In winter the lake is usually at or near freezing (about 32°F / 0°C) where ice forms; water below the ice remains just above 32°F (0–1°C). These numbers are approximate and vary by location on the lake, depth, recent weather, and year-to-year conditions.
Swimming in Damariscotta Lake is generally permitted and commonly enjoyed in summer because the warmer surface temperatures are comfortable for recreational use and there are publicly accessible shorelines. Local rules, water-quality conditions and private-property boundaries can affect where swimming is appropriate, and seasonal issues such as cold spring/fall water and ice cover in winter make swimming unsafe outside the warm months. Swimmers should heed posted advisories, watch for sudden temperature changes with depth, and follow standard lake-safety precautions.