Elk Fork Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Elk Fork Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Elk Fork Lake today is 19.3°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 65°F (18°C) to 68°F (20°C). This is already quite warm water, which is ideal for most people. Swimming becomes comfortable, and prolonged stays in the water do not cause discomfort. This temperature is perfect for family trips and for those who prefer warmer water. It is also comfortable for water sports such as surfing or swimming. 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 | 21.0°C | 21.0°C | |
| OCT 6 | 20.8°C | 21.0°C | |
| OCT 7 | 21.4°C | 21.0°C | |
| OCT 8 | 20.1°C | 21.0°C | |
| OCT 9 | 20.0°C | 21.0°C | |
| OCT 10 | 19.9°C | 21.0°C | |
| OCT 11 | 19.8°C | 21.0°C | |
| OCT 12 | 19.5°C | 21.0°C | |
| OCT 13 | 21.0°C | 19.4°C | |
| OCT 14 | 21.0°C | 19.5°C | |
| OCT 15 | 21.0°C | 19.6°C | |
| OCT 16 | 21.0°C | 19.6°C | |
| OCT 17 | 21.0°C | 19.7°C | |
| OCT 18 | 21.0°C | 19.8°C | |
| OCT 19 | 21.0°C | 19.9°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 | 1°C | 4°C | 7°C |
| February | 1°C | 5°C | 8°C |
| March | 3°C | 8°C | 14°C |
| April | 7°C | 14°C | 20°C |
| May | 14°C | 20°C | 24°C |
| June | 18°C | 22°C | 26°C |
| July | 24°C | 29°C | 33°C |
| August | 23°C | 27°C | 30°C |
| September | 22°C | 26°C | 30°C |
| October | 14°C | 21°C | 28°C |
| November | 6°C | 10°C | 14°C |
| December | 2°C | 6°C | 10°C |
Elk Fork Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Elk Fork Lake: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
Location & Local Information
Elk Fork Lake in West Virginia typically follows the seasonal temperature patterns common to small inland reservoirs in the region. Surface temperatures in winter often hover near freezing to the low 40s Fahrenheit (0–5 °C), with late winter ice possible on colder years. Spring brings a steady rise, roughly 40–60 °F (4–16 °C), as sunlight and runoff warm the water. Peak summer surface temperatures commonly reach about 70–80 °F (21–27 °C) on warm days, though shallower bays can warm more and deeper sections remain cooler. In the fall the lake cools again, usually settling into the 50–65 °F range (10–18 °C) before winter chill sets in. These ranges vary by year, local weather, depth, and inflow.
Swimming at Elk Fork Lake depends on management and posted regulations; many West Virginia lakes permit swimming in designated areas during warmer months when surface temperatures are comfortable (roughly above 70 °F / 21 °C), but other impoundments restrict access for safety, water quality, or dam-operation reasons. If swimming is allowed, it is typically confined to marked beaches or launch zones with signage and sometimes lifeguard presence. Visitors should check local rules, watch for algae advisories or strong currents, and remember that deeper water remains cold enough to pose hypothermia risk even in summer.