Lake Carlton — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Lake Carlton, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Lake Carlton today is 14.7°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 | 17.1°C | 18.0°C | |
| OCT 6 | 17.1°C | 18.0°C | |
| OCT 7 | 16.0°C | 18.0°C | |
| OCT 8 | 16.5°C | 18.0°C | |
| OCT 9 | 15.5°C | 18.0°C | |
| OCT 10 | 16.1°C | 18.0°C | |
| OCT 11 | 15.3°C | 18.0°C | |
| OCT 12 | 15.0°C | 18.0°C | |
| OCT 13 | 18.0°C | 14.9°C | |
| OCT 14 | 18.0°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 15 | 18.0°C | 15.2°C | |
| OCT 16 | 18.0°C | 15.4°C | |
| OCT 17 | 18.0°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 18 | 18.0°C | 15.7°C | |
| OCT 19 | 18.0°C | 15.9°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 | 1°C | 4°C |
| February | 0°C | 3°C | 6°C |
| March | 1°C | 6°C | 9°C |
| April | 7°C | 12°C | 18°C |
| May | 13°C | 18°C | 23°C |
| June | 19°C | 23°C | 27°C |
| July | 21°C | 26°C | 31°C |
| August | 23°C | 26°C | 29°C |
| September | 19°C | 22°C | 26°C |
| October | 15°C | 18°C | 21°C |
| November | 5°C | 11°C | 15°C |
| December | 1°C | 5°C | 9°C |
Lake Carlton: Water Temperature by Location
Lake Carlton: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
October 18
Location & Local Information
Lake Carlton, like many small inland reservoirs in central Illinois, experiences a wide seasonal swing in water temperature. In winter the surface typically approaches freezing, around 32°F (0°C) and can remain in the low 30s to upper 30s (0–3°C) under ice or cold air. Spring sees a gradual rise, with surface readings often in the 40s to low 50s °F (4–11°C) as the lake mixes. By summer the warmest surface temperatures usually range from the mid-60s to mid-80s °F (18–29°C), with the warmest weeks sometimes pushing the surface into the upper 80s°F (around 30°C) on hot spells; deeper water remains noticeably cooler year-round. In autumn the surface cools back through the 50s and 40s °F (10–9°C down to about 4–9°C) as the lake re-stratifies and prepares for winter.
Swimming at Lake Carlton is typically a seasonal activity tied to those warmer summer months and to whatever local rules the managing agency posts. Where designated swimming areas or beaches are provided and water-quality monitoring is favorable, people swim because surface temperatures are comfortable and hazards are managed; however, swimming may be restricted or discouraged when signage, local ordinances, poor water quality, lack of lifeguards, or cold conditions create safety concerns. Always check posted rules and recent water-quality reports before entering the water.