Lake Champlain — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Lake Champlain, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Lake Champlain today is 18.5°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| SEP 13 | 19.6°C | 20.5°C | |
| SEP 14 | 18.9°C | 20.5°C | |
| SEP 15 | 19.5°C | 20.5°C | |
| SEP 16 | 18.6°C | 20.5°C | |
| SEP 17 | 18.4°C | 20.5°C | |
| SEP 18 | 18.0°C | 20.5°C | |
| SEP 19 | 19.1°C | 20.5°C | |
| SEP 20 | 19.3°C | 20.5°C | |
| SEP 21 | 20.5°C | 18.6°C | |
| SEP 22 | 20.5°C | 18.7°C | |
| SEP 23 | 20.5°C | 18.8°C | |
| SEP 24 | 20.5°C | 18.9°C | |
| SEP 25 | 20.5°C | 19.0°C | |
| SEP 26 | 20.5°C | 19.1°C | |
| SEP 27 | 20.5°C | 19.2°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 | 3°C | 5°C |
| February | 0°C | 2°C | 5°C |
| March | 0°C | 2°C | 4°C |
| April | 0°C | 5°C | 9°C |
| May | 3°C | 9°C | 16°C |
| June | 10°C | 15°C | 21°C |
| July | 17°C | 22°C | 27°C |
| August | 19°C | 21°C | 24°C |
| September | 16°C | 21°C | 25°C |
| October | 8°C | 13°C | 17°C |
| November | 2°C | 6°C | 10°C |
| December | 1°C | 4°C | 6°C |
Lake Champlain: Water Temperature by Location
Lake Champlain: Weather Forecast
September 21
September 22
September 23
September 24
September 25
Location & Local Information
Lake Champlain’s surface temperatures in the New York portion vary by season, depth and location. In winter the surface can hover near freezing, roughly 32–39°F (0–4°C) in open water, while spring typically brings cooler conditions around 40–60°F (4–15°C) as the lake stratifies. Summer is when the water is warmest at the surface, commonly about 70–80°F (21–27°C) and in shallow, protected bays it can occasionally climb into the low to mid‑80s°F (around 29°C). By autumn the surface cools again to roughly 50–65°F (10–18°C) as the lake mixes and loses heat. Temperatures fall with depth, so deeper water remains significantly colder year‑round.
Swimming is permitted at many public beaches, parks and private access points around Lake Champlain, because summertime surface temperatures can be comfortable for recreational use and local authorities manage designated swimming areas. However, swimming is subject to safety and health considerations: advisories or closures may occur for algal blooms, bacterial contamination, poor visibility, boat traffic, or hypothermia risk when water is cold outside peak months. Swimmers should stick to marked areas, heed local notices and be aware that shore temperatures are warmer than deeper water and that sudden temperature changes can pose cold‑water shock.