Grand Lake O' the Cherokees — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Grand Lake O' the Cherokees, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Grand Lake O' the Cherokees today is 17.6°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 13 | 20.2°C | 24.0°C | |
| OCT 14 | 19.5°C | 24.0°C | |
| OCT 15 | 20.2°C | 24.0°C | |
| OCT 16 | 19.4°C | 24.0°C | |
| OCT 17 | 20.0°C | 24.0°C | |
| OCT 18 | 20.0°C | 24.0°C | |
| OCT 19 | 19.0°C | 24.0°C | |
| OCT 20 | 18.4°C | 24.0°C | |
| OCT 21 | 24.0°C | 17.9°C | |
| OCT 22 | 24.0°C | 18.2°C | |
| OCT 23 | 24.0°C | 18.6°C | |
| OCT 24 | 24.0°C | 18.9°C | |
| OCT 25 | 24.0°C | 19.2°C | |
| OCT 26 | 24.0°C | 19.5°C | |
| OCT 27 | 24.0°C | 19.8°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 | 5°C | 17°C | 29°C |
| February | 6°C | 17°C | 27°C |
| March | 5°C | 17°C | 29°C |
| April | 13°C | 20°C | 27°C |
| May | 16°C | 23°C | 30°C |
| June | 18°C | 25°C | 31°C |
| July | 23°C | 28°C | 33°C |
| August | 24°C | 29°C | 33°C |
| September | 21°C | 26°C | 31°C |
| October | 20°C | 24°C | 28°C |
| November | 14°C | 22°C | 30°C |
| December | 9°C | 15°C | 19°C |
Grand Lake O' the Cherokees: Water Temperature by Location
Grand Lake O' the Cherokees: Weather Forecast
October 21
October 22
October 23
October 24
October 25
Location & Local Information
Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees experiences a wide seasonal swing in surface water temperature. In winter the lake surface often cools to roughly 35–50°F (2–10°C), while spring warming typically brings averages in the 50–70°F (10–21°C) range. Summer surface temperatures commonly sit between 75–90°F (24–32°C), with shallow coves warming fastest and occasional heat waves pushing readings toward the upper end. In autumn the lake generally cools back into the mid‑50s to 70°F (13–21°C). These figures refer mostly to surface measurements; deeper water and shaded, wind‑protected bays remain noticeably cooler than exposed shallows.
Swimming at Grand Lake is widely practiced and generally allowed because it is a public recreational reservoir, but conditions and rules vary by access point. Many parks and marinas permit swimming from designated areas, yet there are often no lifeguards, and boat traffic, changing depths, and submerged structures pose hazards. Water quality can fluctuate, with occasional algal blooms or turbidity after heavy rains leading local authorities to advise avoiding contact until conditions improve. Swimmers should choose marked swim areas, heed posted advisories, and be mindful that comfortable swimming is most likely in late spring through early fall when surface temperatures are warmest.