Heron Reservoir — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Heron Reservoir, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Heron Reservoir today is 19.3°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| SEP 14 | 19.9°C | 22.8°C | |
| SEP 15 | 20.0°C | 22.8°C | |
| SEP 16 | 19.9°C | 22.8°C | |
| SEP 17 | 19.3°C | 22.8°C | |
| SEP 18 | 19.2°C | 22.8°C | |
| SEP 19 | 19.3°C | 22.8°C | |
| SEP 20 | 19.4°C | 22.8°C | |
| SEP 21 | 19.3°C | 22.8°C | |
| SEP 22 | 22.8°C | 19.5°C | |
| SEP 23 | 22.8°C | 19.7°C | |
| SEP 24 | 22.8°C | 19.8°C | |
| SEP 25 | 22.8°C | 20.0°C | |
| SEP 26 | 22.8°C | 20.2°C | |
| SEP 27 | 22.8°C | 20.4°C | |
| SEP 28 | 22.8°C | 20.5°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 | 0°C | 3°C | 6°C |
| February | 0°C | 3°C | 6°C |
| March | 5°C | 9°C | 14°C |
| April | 6°C | 14°C | 22°C |
| May | 11°C | 15°C | 20°C |
| June | 14°C | 19°C | 23°C |
| July | 20°C | 23°C | 26°C |
| August | 22°C | 24°C | 27°C |
| September | 20°C | 23°C | 25°C |
| October | 15°C | 19°C | 23°C |
| November | 5°C | 10°C | 15°C |
| December | 2°C | 4°C | 7°C |
Heron Reservoir: Water Temperature by Location
Heron Reservoir: Weather Forecast
September 22
September 23
September 24
September 25
September 26
Location & Local Information
Heron Reservoir sits at high elevation in northern New Mexico, so its water stays relatively cool throughout the year. Seasonal surface temperatures typically run from near freezing in winter—about 32–45°F (0–7°C)—to a spring buildup around 40–60°F (4–15°C). In summer the lake’s surface most commonly reaches roughly 60–70°F (15–21°C), with occasional warm spells pushing parts of the surface into the low- to mid-70s°F (around 22–24°C). By autumn the water generally declines again into the 45–60°F (7–15°C) range as air temperatures cool. Deeper water remains significantly colder year-round, and rapid changes in weather or wind can quickly alter surface readings.
Swimming at Heron Reservoir is not actively managed with lifeguards or developed swim beaches, and while people do enter the water recreationally, conditions often make swimming less inviting and potentially hazardous. The combination of cold temperatures even in summer, sudden drop-offs, submerged hazards, and boat traffic means that the area is effectively an unmanaged swim environment; some access points may be posted with local rules or restrictions. For these reasons, many visitors treat Heron more as a fishing and boating destination than a conventional swimming lake.
