High Falls Reservoir — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in High Falls Reservoir, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in High Falls Reservoir today is 13.5°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 5 | 15.2°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 6 | 15.1°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 7 | 14.4°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 8 | 13.9°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 9 | 14.6°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 10 | 14.4°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 11 | 13.0°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 13.1°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 13 | 15.5°C | 13.6°C | |
| OCT 14 | 15.5°C | 13.7°C | |
| OCT 15 | 15.5°C | 13.8°C | |
| OCT 16 | 15.5°C | 13.9°C | |
| OCT 17 | 15.5°C | 14.0°C | |
| OCT 18 | 15.5°C | 14.1°C | |
| OCT 19 | 15.5°C | 14.2°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 | 7°C |
| February | 0°C | 4°C | 8°C |
| March | 0°C | 3°C | 5°C |
| April | 0°C | 6°C | 12°C |
| May | 6°C | 15°C | 23°C |
| June | 17°C | 20°C | 22°C |
| July | 18°C | 24°C | 30°C |
| August | 19°C | 23°C | 27°C |
| September | 12°C | 17°C | 23°C |
| October | 13°C | 16°C | 18°C |
| November | 0°C | 7°C | 14°C |
| December | 0°C | 2°C | 5°C |
High Falls Reservoir: Water Temperature by Location
High Falls Reservoir: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
Location & Local Information
High Falls Reservoir in northern Wisconsin typically follows the seasonal temperature patterns of other inland reservoirs. In spring the surface water usually warms from near freezing after ice-out to roughly 40–60°F (4–15°C) as air temperatures rise. During summer the surface commonly reaches about 65–75°F (18–24°C) and can briefly climb toward 80°F (27°C) during heat waves, while deeper water remains much cooler, often 40–50°F (4–10°C) below the thermocline. In early fall the surface cools back to roughly 50–65°F (10–18°C) and by late fall into winter the reservoir approaches freezing; surface temperatures under ice are typically close to 32–39°F (0–4°C).
Swimming in High Falls Reservoir is possible and is practiced by visitors, but conditions differ from a managed beach. There are few if any lifeguarded or formally maintained swim beaches, water levels and currents near inlets/outlets can change with dam operations, and colder deep water and steep drop-offs present hazards. Water quality is generally suitable for recreation in many areas, but swimmers should choose sheltered, shallow spots, be mindful of boat traffic, check local signs or landowner rules, and avoid cold or choppy conditions that increase risk of cold shock or drowning.