Great Salt Plains Reservoir — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Great Salt Plains Reservoir, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Great Salt Plains Reservoir today is 12.1°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 54°F (12°C) to 60°F (15°C). The water is significantly warmer, and swimming becomes possible for most people. However, caution may still be required for prolonged stays in the water, as extended exposure can cause discomfort. This is a suitable temperature range for short swims and for those accustomed to cooler water. For more comfortable swimming, it is recommended to use proper gear. 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 | 15.3°C | 19.5°C | |
| OCT 27 | 15.2°C | 19.5°C | |
| OCT 28 | 15.5°C | 19.5°C | |
| OCT 29 | 14.5°C | 19.5°C | |
| OCT 30 | 14.1°C | 19.5°C | |
| OCT 31 | 14.1°C | 19.5°C | |
| NOV 1 | 13.1°C | 13.7°C | |
| NOV 2 | 12.6°C | 13.7°C | |
| NOV 3 | 13.7°C | 12.2°C | |
| NOV 4 | 13.7°C | 12.3°C | |
| NOV 5 | 13.7°C | 12.3°C | |
| NOV 6 | 13.7°C | 12.4°C | |
| NOV 7 | 13.7°C | 12.5°C | |
| NOV 8 | 13.7°C | 12.6°C | |
| NOV 9 | 13.7°C | 12.7°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 | 0°C | 4°C | 8°C |
| February | 2°C | 5°C | 9°C |
| March | 3°C | 11°C | 18°C |
| April | 10°C | 15°C | 21°C |
| May | 13°C | 19°C | 25°C |
| June | 20°C | 24°C | 28°C |
| July | 23°C | 27°C | 31°C |
| August | 23°C | 27°C | 32°C |
| September | 22°C | 26°C | 30°C |
| October | 16°C | 20°C | 23°C |
| November | 9°C | 14°C | 18°C |
| December | 3°C | 6°C | 9°C |
Great Salt Plains Reservoir: Water Temperature by Location
Great Salt Plains Reservoir: Weather Forecast
November 3
November 4
November 5
November 6
November 7
Location & Local Information
Great Salt Plains Reservoir is relatively shallow, so water temperatures fluctuate with the seasons and warm quickly in summer. Typical seasonal surface temperatures run roughly from about 34–45°F (1–7°C) in winter, 50–68°F (10–20°C) in spring, 72–86°F (22–30°C) in summer, and 55–70°F (13–21°C) in fall. These ranges reflect daytime surface readings; deeper or shaded areas will be cooler and overnight lows can drop substantially. Wind, recent rainfall and river inflows also influence short-term changes, so the lake can feel noticeably colder during stormy stretches or after cool nights.
Swimming is generally allowed at the reservoir in areas designated by the state park when conditions permit because the lake is managed for public recreation. Access and use are subject to posted advisories: water quality issues, algal or bacterial blooms, strong currents, or hazardous weather can temporarily close swim areas. Many sites are unguarded, so visitors should follow posted rules, watch children closely, and check with park staff for current safety and water-temperature information before entering the water.