Kinkaid Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Kinkaid Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Kinkaid Lake today is 19°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| OCT 5 | 21.9°C | 20.5°C | |
| OCT 6 | 21.4°C | 20.5°C | |
| OCT 7 | 21.4°C | 20.5°C | |
| OCT 8 | 20.4°C | 20.5°C | |
| OCT 9 | 20.2°C | 20.5°C | |
| OCT 10 | 20.7°C | 20.5°C | |
| OCT 11 | 19.8°C | 20.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 20.1°C | 20.5°C | |
| OCT 13 | 20.5°C | 19.1°C | |
| OCT 14 | 20.5°C | 19.2°C | |
| OCT 15 | 20.5°C | 19.2°C | |
| OCT 16 | 20.5°C | 19.3°C | |
| OCT 17 | 20.5°C | 19.4°C | |
| OCT 18 | 20.5°C | 19.5°C | |
| OCT 19 | 20.5°C | 19.5°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 | 4°C | 8°C |
| February | 3°C | 6°C | 8°C |
| March | 3°C | 8°C | 13°C |
| April | 6°C | 13°C | 20°C |
| May | 15°C | 19°C | 23°C |
| June | 20°C | 24°C | 27°C |
| July | 25°C | 29°C | 33°C |
| August | 26°C | 28°C | 31°C |
| September | 23°C | 26°C | 28°C |
| October | 17°C | 21°C | 24°C |
| November | 10°C | 14°C | 17°C |
| December | 4°C | 7°C | 10°C |
Kinkaid Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Kinkaid Lake: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
October 18
Location & Local Information
Kinkaid Lake in southern Illinois typically shows clear seasonal swings in water temperature. In winter the surface often approaches near‑freezing to the low 40s °F (about 0–5 °C). Spring warming brings surface values roughly into the mid‑40s to mid‑60s °F (7–18 °C) as the lake stratifies. During summer the surface commonly ranges from about 70–85 °F (21–29 °C), and on hot spells can climb into the high 80s °F (30–31 °C) at the very surface; deeper water remains noticeably cooler. Fall cooling reverses this pattern, with surface temperatures generally dropping into the 50s–70s °F (10–21 °C). Actual temperatures vary with air temperature, wind, depth and time of day, and the lake can develop a thermocline in summer so bottom water is substantially colder than the surface.
Swimming is permitted at Kinkaid Lake as part of its multi‑use recreational management, but conditions and facilities are variable. Many areas allow shore or open‑water swimming, often without lifeguards, and designated beaches or access points may be managed by the park or marina. Water quality and algae blooms can prompt temporary closures, and cold‑water risk in spring/fall or deep, cool water in summer make caution important. Visitors should follow posted signs, respect any restrictions, and take standard water‑safety precautions when entering the lake.