John H. Kerr Reservoir — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in John H. Kerr Reservoir, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in John H. Kerr Reservoir today is 16.8°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 | 17.9°C | 20.0°C | |
| OCT 27 | 18.2°C | 20.0°C | |
| OCT 28 | 17.7°C | 20.0°C | |
| OCT 29 | 17.4°C | 20.0°C | |
| OCT 30 | 17.6°C | 20.0°C | |
| OCT 31 | 17.0°C | 20.0°C | |
| NOV 1 | 17.8°C | 12.0°C | |
| NOV 2 | 16.8°C | 12.0°C | |
| NOV 3 | 12.0°C | 16.6°C | |
| NOV 4 | 12.0°C | 16.3°C | |
| NOV 5 | 12.0°C | 16.1°C | |
| NOV 6 | 12.0°C | 15.8°C | |
| NOV 7 | 12.0°C | 15.6°C | |
| NOV 8 | 12.0°C | 15.4°C | |
| NOV 9 | 12.0°C | 15.1°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 | 2°C | 6°C | 10°C |
| February | 1°C | 5°C | 8°C |
| March | 6°C | 12°C | 18°C |
| April | 12°C | 16°C | 20°C |
| May | 15°C | 20°C | 26°C |
| June | 18°C | 22°C | 26°C |
| July | 22°C | 27°C | 32°C |
| August | 21°C | 26°C | 31°C |
| September | 22°C | 26°C | 29°C |
| October | 17°C | 20°C | 23°C |
| November | 6°C | 12°C | 18°C |
| December | 4°C | 8°C | 11°C |
John H. Kerr Reservoir: Water Temperature by Location
John H. Kerr Reservoir: Weather Forecast
November 3
November 4
November 5
November 6
November 7
Location & Local Information
John H. Kerr Reservoir, commonly called Kerr Lake, shows pronounced seasonal variation in surface water temperature. In winter the surface commonly cools to roughly 34–50°F (1–10°C), while spring sees a steady rise into the 50–70°F range (10–21°C) as warming progresses. Summer surface temperatures often reach the warmest levels, typically about 75–85°F (24–29°C) and occasionally climbing into the upper 80s°F (29–31°C) during heat waves. In autumn the surface gradually cools back into the mid 50s to low 70s°F (13–22°C). As a large reservoir, deeper water remains noticeably cooler year-round and the lake can develop thermoclines, so conditions a few meters below the surface will be significantly colder than surface readings.
Swimming at Kerr Lake is permitted, but it is generally done at designated recreation areas and boat-access spots rather than supervised public beaches. Many park units allow swimming but do not provide lifeguards, so bathing is at one’s own risk; boat traffic, submerged stumps and sudden drop-offs are common hazards. Water quality is monitored periodically, though conditions can change and nuisance algae blooms can occur seasonally, so visitors are advised to check local advisories and choose established swimming areas for safer access.