Kachess Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Kachess Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Kachess Lake today is 14.9°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| SEP 14 | 16.7°C | 20.0°C | |
| SEP 15 | 16.2°C | 20.0°C | |
| SEP 16 | 16.0°C | 20.0°C | |
| SEP 17 | 15.3°C | 20.0°C | |
| SEP 18 | 14.8°C | 20.0°C | |
| SEP 19 | 15.5°C | 20.0°C | |
| SEP 20 | 14.9°C | 20.0°C | |
| SEP 21 | 14.9°C | 20.0°C | |
| SEP 22 | 20.0°C | 15.2°C | |
| SEP 23 | 20.0°C | 15.4°C | |
| SEP 24 | 20.0°C | 15.7°C | |
| SEP 25 | 20.0°C | 15.9°C | |
| SEP 26 | 20.0°C | 16.2°C | |
| SEP 27 | 20.0°C | 16.4°C | |
| SEP 28 | 20.0°C | 16.7°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 | 2°C | 4°C |
| February | 1°C | 5°C | 8°C |
| March | 2°C | 7°C | 11°C |
| April | 4°C | 10°C | 15°C |
| May | 6°C | 14°C | 21°C |
| June | 10°C | 17°C | 24°C |
| July | 12°C | 22°C | 31°C |
| August | 14°C | 22°C | 30°C |
| September | 14°C | 20°C | 26°C |
| October | 8°C | 14°C | 20°C |
| November | 4°C | 9°C | 14°C |
| December | 2°C | 6°C | 9°C |
Kachess Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Kachess Lake: Weather Forecast
September 22
September 23
September 24
September 25
September 26
Location & Local Information
Kachess Lake, a high-elevation reservoir in central Washington, remains relatively cold throughout the year. In summer months the surface can warm to roughly 60–70°F (15–21°C) on warm afternoons in shallow, sunlit bays, but even then deeper water stays much cooler. Spring and fall surface temperatures typically range from about 40–60°F (4–15°C) depending on recent weather and snowmelt, while winter temperatures often sit close to freezing, roughly 32–40°F (0–4°C) beneath snow and ice conditions. Because the lake is fed by mountain runoff and sits at elevation, thermal stratification and rapid drops in temperature with depth are common.
Swimming at Kachess Lake is generally permitted in recreation areas, but it is subject to practical and safety limitations. The reservoir is managed for irrigation, so water levels and currents can change with reservoir operations, and areas near the dam or outlet can be hazardous. There are usually no lifeguards, submerged hazards and cold-water shock risk are real, and reduced water levels can expose rocks and drop-offs. Visitors should swim only in designated or commonly used shore areas, heed posted rules, and be cautious of cold-water effects and variable access caused by water management.