Fort Peck Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Fort Peck Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Fort Peck Lake today is 19.8°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| JUN 23 | 18.9°C | 15.1°C | |
| JUN 24 | 19.0°C | 15.1°C | |
| JUN 25 | 19.0°C | 15.1°C | |
| JUN 26 | 18.8°C | 15.1°C | |
| JUN 27 | 19.1°C | 15.1°C | |
| JUN 28 | 19.2°C | 15.1°C | |
| JUN 29 | 19.1°C | 15.1°C | |
| JUN 30 | 19.8°C | 15.1°C | |
| JUL 1 | 19.0°C | 19.8°C | |
| JUL 2 | 19.0°C | 19.7°C | |
| JUL 3 | 19.0°C | 19.7°C | |
| JUL 4 | 19.0°C | 19.6°C | |
| JUL 5 | 19.0°C | 19.6°C | |
| JUL 6 | 19.0°C | 19.6°C | |
| JUL 7 | 19.0°C | 19.5°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 | 6°C |
| February | 1°C | 4°C | 7°C |
| March | 1°C | 5°C | 9°C |
| April | 0°C | 6°C | 13°C |
| May | 4°C | 12°C | 21°C |
| June | 9°C | 15°C | 22°C |
| July | 16°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| August | 17°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| September | 13°C | 17°C | 21°C |
| October | 4°C | 11°C | 18°C |
| November | 4°C | 7°C | 10°C |
| December | 3°C | 7°C | 10°C |
Fort Peck Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Fort Peck Lake: Weather Forecast
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Location & Local Information
Fort Peck Lake is a large Missouri River reservoir in northeastern Montana and its surface temperatures vary widely with season, wind and depth. In spring the lake is typically cold, often in the range of about 35–60°F (2–16°C) as snowmelt and cool air persist. Summer brings the warmest surface water, commonly about 65–80°F (18–27°C) in open areas and sometimes reaching the upper 70s (around 25–26°C) in shallow, sheltered bays on hot, calm days. By early fall the surface usually cools to roughly 50–65°F (10–18°C) as air temperatures drop. In winter the reservoir can approach freezing, with surface temperatures near 32–40°F (0–4°C) and ice forming in many places. Deeper water remains colder year-round and strong winds can keep surface temperatures cooler than in protected coves.
Swimming at Fort Peck is allowed and is a popular summer activity at designated recreation sites and beaches managed around the reservoir, but conditions require caution. There are few lifeguards, and hazards include cold water shock, sudden drop-offs, boat traffic, wakes, and variable currents near inlets and the dam. Because temperatures can change rapidly and deeper water stays much colder, swimmers should choose sheltered areas, wear flotation if uncertain, and check local advisories before entering the water.