Harlan County Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Harlan County Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Harlan County Lake today is 17.1°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 6 | 18.3°C | 17.0°C | |
| OCT 7 | 17.7°C | 17.0°C | |
| OCT 8 | 17.4°C | 17.0°C | |
| OCT 9 | 17.7°C | 17.0°C | |
| OCT 10 | 16.9°C | 17.0°C | |
| OCT 11 | 16.7°C | 17.0°C | |
| OCT 12 | 16.4°C | 17.0°C | |
| OCT 13 | 16.7°C | 17.0°C | |
| OCT 14 | 17.0°C | 17.1°C | |
| OCT 15 | 17.0°C | 17.1°C | |
| OCT 16 | 17.0°C | 17.1°C | |
| OCT 17 | 17.0°C | 17.1°C | |
| OCT 18 | 17.0°C | 17.1°C | |
| OCT 19 | 17.0°C | 17.1°C | |
| OCT 20 | 17.0°C | 17.1°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 | 2°C | 5°C |
| February | 0°C | 3°C | 5°C |
| March | 0°C | 8°C | 17°C |
| April | 8°C | 13°C | 18°C |
| May | 13°C | 18°C | 23°C |
| June | 18°C | 22°C | 25°C |
| July | 23°C | 27°C | 31°C |
| August | 23°C | 27°C | 31°C |
| September | 21°C | 25°C | 29°C |
| October | 12°C | 17°C | 22°C |
| November | 5°C | 11°C | 16°C |
| December | 1°C | 3°C | 6°C |
Harlan County Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Harlan County Lake: Weather Forecast
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
October 18
Location & Local Information
Harlan County Lake (Harlan County Reservoir) in southern Nebraska experiences a strong seasonal swing in surface water temperature. In spring the lake typically runs cool, roughly 40–60°F (4–16°C) as air temperatures recover and snowmelt and runoff dilute and cool surface layers. By early summer surface temperatures commonly rise into the mid‑60s to low‑70s°F (18–23°C), reaching their peak in July and August when 70–80°F (21–27°C) is typical on warm days. In early fall the surface cools back into the 50s–60s°F (10–20°C) range, and winter brings near‑freezing conditions with ice possible; readings around 32–39°F (0–4°C) are not unusual under cold snaps.
Swimming at Harlan County is generally permitted in open water, but normally only in designated recreation areas and when local authorities have not posted advisories. There are no guaranteed lifeguards, and safety is affected by changing water levels, submerged hazards and occasional poor water quality after heavy runoff. Algal blooms and bacterial contamination can prompt temporary restrictions, and winter ice makes swimming unsafe. Visitors should plan to swim during warm months when surface temperatures are comfortable and pay attention to on‑site notices about water quality and safety.