Elephant Butte Reservoir — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Elephant Butte Reservoir, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Elephant Butte Reservoir today is 23.9°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
✅ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 75°F (23°C) to 79°F (26°C). This is a very comfortable temperature for swimming, and many people can enjoy prolonged stays in the water without feeling cold. The water is pleasantly warm, making it ideal for relaxation and water sports. This temperature range is particularly popular among tourists, as it combines comfort and safety for health. 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 | 24.9°C | 25.7°C | |
| SEP 15 | 24.8°C | 25.7°C | |
| SEP 16 | 25.3°C | 25.7°C | |
| SEP 17 | 25.1°C | 25.7°C | |
| SEP 18 | 24.9°C | 25.7°C | |
| SEP 19 | 24.8°C | 25.7°C | |
| SEP 20 | 25.1°C | 25.7°C | |
| SEP 21 | 23.9°C | 25.7°C | |
| SEP 22 | 25.7°C | 24.0°C | |
| SEP 23 | 25.7°C | 24.1°C | |
| SEP 24 | 25.7°C | 24.2°C | |
| SEP 25 | 25.7°C | 24.3°C | |
| SEP 26 | 25.7°C | 24.4°C | |
| SEP 27 | 25.7°C | 24.4°C | |
| SEP 28 | 25.7°C | 24.5°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 | 5°C | 11°C |
| February | 2°C | 7°C | 12°C |
| March | 6°C | 14°C | 22°C |
| April | 13°C | 18°C | 23°C |
| May | 17°C | 22°C | 28°C |
| June | 19°C | 24°C | 29°C |
| July | 25°C | 28°C | 32°C |
| August | 25°C | 29°C | 33°C |
| September | 20°C | 26°C | 32°C |
| October | 14°C | 18°C | 22°C |
| November | 6°C | 12°C | 19°C |
| December | 7°C | 10°C | 13°C |
Elephant Butte Reservoir: Water Temperature by Location
Elephant Butte Reservoir: Weather Forecast
September 21
September 22
September 23
September 24
September 25
Location & Local Information
Elephant Butte Reservoir’s surface water temperatures vary widely through the year because it is a large, shallow-to-moderately deep southwestern reservoir influenced by air temperatures and inflow. In summer the surface commonly warms to roughly 75–85°F (24–29°C) and can occasionally reach the upper 80s°F (around 31°C) on very hot days. Spring and fall are transitional, with typical surface readings from about 50–70°F (10–21°C) in spring and 60–75°F (15–24°C) in autumn as the lake responds to cooler nights and seasonal runoff. In winter the surface often cools to roughly 35–50°F (2–10°C), and deeper water remains noticeably colder year-round due to thermal stratification and inflow from cooler tributaries.
Swimming at Elephant Butte is generally permitted in beach and designated recreation areas within Elephant Butte State Park, but conditions dictate safety and comfort. There are no routine lifeguards at most sites, water levels fluctuate with season and management, and submerged hazards, boat traffic and occasional water-quality advisories (for algal blooms or bacteria) can limit swimming. Because of these factors, visitors are advised to check current park notices, use established swim areas, wear flotation if uncertain, and remember that even warm surface temperatures can overlay much colder water below, increasing the risk of shock or cramps.