Fontana Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Fontana Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Fontana Lake today is 22.9°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
✅ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 68°F (20°C) to 74°F (23°C). The water is warm and pleasant for swimming, and in this range, one can stay in the water for extended periods without the risk of hypothermia. This is the ideal temperature for relaxation, swimming, and water sports. Families with children, as well as outdoor enthusiasts, will enjoy swimming and time spent in the water. For most people, this is the optimal temperature for a comfortable beach experience. 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 | 23.3°C | 24.0°C | |
| SEP 15 | 23.3°C | 24.0°C | |
| SEP 16 | 22.8°C | 24.0°C | |
| SEP 17 | 23.4°C | 24.0°C | |
| SEP 18 | 23.2°C | 24.0°C | |
| SEP 19 | 23.1°C | 24.0°C | |
| SEP 20 | 23.5°C | 24.0°C | |
| SEP 21 | 22.9°C | 24.0°C | |
| SEP 22 | 24.0°C | 23.0°C | |
| SEP 23 | 24.0°C | 23.0°C | |
| SEP 24 | 24.0°C | 23.1°C | |
| SEP 25 | 24.0°C | 23.1°C | |
| SEP 26 | 24.0°C | 23.2°C | |
| SEP 27 | 24.0°C | 23.2°C | |
| SEP 28 | 24.0°C | 23.3°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 | 2°C | 7°C | 11°C |
| February | 3°C | 7°C | 10°C |
| March | 5°C | 9°C | 14°C |
| April | 11°C | 16°C | 20°C |
| May | 16°C | 20°C | 23°C |
| June | 18°C | 22°C | 26°C |
| July | 22°C | 26°C | 29°C |
| August | 21°C | 24°C | 27°C |
| September | 20°C | 24°C | 28°C |
| October | 15°C | 20°C | 25°C |
| November | 11°C | 16°C | 20°C |
| December | 6°C | 9°C | 12°C |
Fontana Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Fontana Lake: Weather Forecast
September 21
September 22
September 23
September 24
September 25
Location & Local Information
Fontana Lake, a deep reservoir behind Fontana Dam in western North Carolina, tends to have cooler water than lowland lakes because of its depth and mountain location. Surface temperatures in summer commonly reach the mid-70s to low 80s °F (about 24–28 °C) on warm afternoons, though cooler windy conditions and shaded coves stay several degrees lower. In spring the lake typically ranges from the mid-40s to mid-60s °F (7–18 °C) as solar warming increases, while autumn sees a decline into the 50s–60s °F (10–20 °C) before winter brings surface readings often in the 30s–40s °F (0–7 °C). Deep sections of the reservoir remain much colder year-round, so overall conditions can change quickly with depth and location.
Swimming in Fontana Lake is possible at many public access points and recreational areas, but it is not supervised across most of the shoreline and some zones near the dam or marinas are restricted for safety and operational reasons. The combination of steep drop-offs, cold water that can cause cold-shock and rapid loss of body heat, boat traffic, and variable currents makes caution essential. People who choose to swim should use designated recreation areas when available, wear flotation or thermal protection if needed, avoid solitary swims, and observe posted TVA or park rules to reduce risk.