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 18.1°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 26 | 19.3°C | 20.0°C | |
| OCT 27 | 18.7°C | 20.0°C | |
| OCT 28 | 19.1°C | 20.0°C | |
| OCT 29 | 19.1°C | 20.0°C | |
| OCT 30 | 18.8°C | 20.0°C | |
| OCT 31 | 18.1°C | 20.0°C | |
| NOV 1 | 18.3°C | 15.8°C | |
| NOV 2 | 18.1°C | 15.8°C | |
| NOV 3 | 15.8°C | 18.0°C | |
| NOV 4 | 15.8°C | 17.9°C | |
| NOV 5 | 15.8°C | 17.8°C | |
| NOV 6 | 15.8°C | 17.6°C | |
| NOV 7 | 15.8°C | 17.5°C | |
| NOV 8 | 15.8°C | 17.4°C | |
| NOV 9 | 15.8°C | 17.3°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
November 3
November 4
November 5
November 6
November 7
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.