Fern Ridge Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Fern Ridge Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Fern Ridge Lake today is 15.5°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 | 16.4°C | 14.0°C | |
| OCT 6 | 16.8°C | 14.0°C | |
| OCT 7 | 16.8°C | 14.0°C | |
| OCT 8 | 16.4°C | 14.0°C | |
| OCT 9 | 16.2°C | 14.0°C | |
| OCT 10 | 15.9°C | 14.0°C | |
| OCT 11 | 16.7°C | 14.0°C | |
| OCT 12 | 16.1°C | 14.0°C | |
| OCT 13 | 14.0°C | 15.4°C | |
| OCT 14 | 14.0°C | 15.4°C | |
| OCT 15 | 14.0°C | 15.3°C | |
| OCT 16 | 14.0°C | 15.2°C | |
| OCT 17 | 14.0°C | 15.1°C | |
| OCT 18 | 14.0°C | 15.1°C | |
| OCT 19 | 14.0°C | 15.0°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 | 4°C | 9°C |
| February | 0°C | 4°C | 9°C |
| March | 1°C | 6°C | 12°C |
| April | 9°C | 12°C | 15°C |
| May | 13°C | 17°C | 21°C |
| June | 14°C | 19°C | 23°C |
| July | 16°C | 21°C | 26°C |
| August | 17°C | 22°C | 27°C |
| September | 17°C | 20°C | 22°C |
| October | 10°C | 14°C | 18°C |
| November | 4°C | 8°C | 13°C |
| December | 6°C | 9°C | 12°C |
Fern Ridge Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Fern Ridge Lake: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
October 18
Location & Local Information
Fern Ridge Lake, a shallow reservoir west of Eugene, experiences a wide annual range of surface water temperatures. In winter the lake commonly sits around 40–50°F (4–10°C). Spring warming typically brings surface readings into the 50–60°F range (10–16°C). During summer, on warm, sunny days surface temperatures often reach about 65–78°F (18–26°C), although the exact value can vary with air temperature, wind and depth; cooler, deeper pockets remain colder. In autumn the lake generally cools back to roughly 50–65°F (10–18°C). These are approximate surface values — the reservoir’s shallow areas heat and cool more quickly than deeper channels.
Swimming is generally possible at Fern Ridge because it is managed for multiple recreational uses, and many access points are used for wading and open-water swimming. There are no widespread prohibitions, but there are occasional health advisories for algal blooms (cyanobacteria) or bacterial contamination, and lifeguards are not typically provided, so swimmers should exercise caution. Boat traffic, variable underwater depth, and cold water in shoulder seasons add risk. Before swimming it’s wise to check current local water-quality notices and choose designated access areas, wear a personal flotation device if conditions warrant, and avoid entering the water during known bloom advisories.