Fallen Leaf Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Fallen Leaf Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Fallen Leaf Lake today is 12.3°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 | 12.5°C | 13.5°C | |
| OCT 6 | 12.3°C | 13.5°C | |
| OCT 7 | 12.4°C | 13.5°C | |
| OCT 8 | 12.2°C | 13.5°C | |
| OCT 9 | 12.0°C | 13.5°C | |
| OCT 10 | 11.9°C | 13.5°C | |
| OCT 11 | 11.7°C | 13.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 12.5°C | 13.5°C | |
| OCT 13 | 13.5°C | 12.4°C | |
| OCT 14 | 13.5°C | 12.4°C | |
| OCT 15 | 13.5°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 16 | 13.5°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 17 | 13.5°C | 12.6°C | |
| OCT 18 | 13.5°C | 12.7°C | |
| OCT 19 | 13.5°C | 12.7°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 | 2°C | 5°C |
| February | 0°C | 2°C | 5°C |
| March | 0°C | 4°C | 8°C |
| April | 0°C | 4°C | 8°C |
| May | 5°C | 10°C | 14°C |
| June | 9°C | 13°C | 18°C |
| July | 13°C | 18°C | 24°C |
| August | 18°C | 21°C | 25°C |
| September | 16°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| October | 10°C | 14°C | 17°C |
| November | 5°C | 9°C | 11°C |
| December | 3°C | 5°C | 7°C |
Fallen Leaf Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Fallen Leaf Lake: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
Location & Local Information
Fallen Leaf Lake, a high‑elevation alpine lake near Lake Tahoe, stays noticeably cool through most of the year. Surface temperatures in summer typically run in the low to upper 60s °F (about 15–20 °C) and on rare warm afternoons can approach 70 °F (21 °C). In spring and fall the water is much colder, commonly ranging from about 40–55 °F (4–13 °C), depending on recent weather and runoff. During winter the lake’s surface can approach freezing, roughly 32–40 °F (0–4 °C), and deep water remains cold year‑round because of the lake’s depth and mountain climate.
Swimming in Fallen Leaf Lake is allowed, but conditions make it a brisk experience for most people. There are public access points and small beaches where people enter the water, yet lifeguards are generally not present and private shoreline sections are off limits. The main reasons for caution are the low water temperatures, which increase the risk of cold‑water shock and hypothermia, and sudden weather changes common at elevation. Many swimmers use wetsuits or limit time in the water; anyone planning to swim should be prepared, monitor conditions, and avoid solitary or prolonged immersion.