Great Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Great Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Great Lake today is 17.7°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 26 | 18.5°C | 20.0°C | |
| OCT 27 | 18.9°C | 20.0°C | |
| OCT 28 | 18.7°C | 20.0°C | |
| OCT 29 | 18.0°C | 20.0°C | |
| OCT 30 | 17.8°C | 20.0°C | |
| OCT 31 | 17.8°C | 20.0°C | |
| NOV 1 | 18.0°C | 12.1°C | |
| NOV 2 | 17.7°C | 12.1°C | |
| NOV 3 | 12.1°C | 17.4°C | |
| NOV 4 | 12.1°C | 17.1°C | |
| NOV 5 | 12.1°C | 16.9°C | |
| NOV 6 | 12.1°C | 16.6°C | |
| NOV 7 | 12.1°C | 16.3°C | |
| NOV 8 | 12.1°C | 16.0°C | |
| NOV 9 | 12.1°C | 15.7°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 | 4°C | 7°C | 11°C |
| February | 1°C | 6°C | 11°C |
| March | 9°C | 13°C | 18°C |
| April | 15°C | 19°C | 23°C |
| May | 16°C | 22°C | 29°C |
| June | 18°C | 23°C | 28°C |
| July | 23°C | 28°C | 32°C |
| August | 23°C | 27°C | 31°C |
| September | 23°C | 27°C | 30°C |
| October | 17°C | 20°C | 23°C |
| November | 6°C | 12°C | 18°C |
| December | 6°C | 11°C | 14°C |
Great Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Great Lake: Weather Forecast
November 3
November 4
November 5
November 6
November 7
November 8
Location & Local Information
At Great Lake, a medium-sized inland lake in North Carolina, surface water temperatures follow the regional seasonal pattern. Winters commonly bring cooler conditions with surface readings often between about 35–50°F (2–10°C). Spring sees a steady rise, typically 50–68°F (10–20°C) as air temperatures warm and stratification begins. Peak summer surface temperatures usually occur from July into August, with common ranges of 70–82°F (21–28°C) and occasional localized warming into the mid-80s°F (around 29°C) on very hot, shallow areas. In autumn the lake cools again, generally 55–70°F (13–21°C) as turnover begins and surface mixing returns.
Swimming at Great Lake is generally permitted in designated areas when local authorities and posted advisories allow it, primarily during late spring through early fall when surface temperatures are comfortable and risks from cold shock are low. However, access depends on boat traffic, shoreline facilities, water quality (including bacterial levels and algal blooms), and specific park rules; these factors can close or restrict swimming even in warm weather. Cold winter temperatures, hazardous currents, and reduced lifeguard coverage make swimming inadvisable outside the warmer months due to hypothermia and safety concerns.