Lake Chelan — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Lake Chelan, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Lake Chelan today is 16.9°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| SEP 14 | 18.2°C | 18.3°C | |
| SEP 15 | 18.1°C | 18.3°C | |
| SEP 16 | 18.0°C | 18.3°C | |
| SEP 17 | 17.2°C | 18.3°C | |
| SEP 18 | 17.2°C | 18.3°C | |
| SEP 19 | 17.3°C | 18.3°C | |
| SEP 20 | 17.1°C | 18.3°C | |
| SEP 21 | 16.9°C | 18.3°C | |
| SEP 22 | 18.3°C | 17.0°C | |
| SEP 23 | 18.3°C | 17.0°C | |
| SEP 24 | 18.3°C | 17.1°C | |
| SEP 25 | 18.3°C | 17.2°C | |
| SEP 26 | 18.3°C | 17.3°C | |
| SEP 27 | 18.3°C | 17.3°C | |
| SEP 28 | 18.3°C | 17.4°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 | 2°C | 5°C |
| March | 1°C | 3°C | 6°C |
| April | 3°C | 7°C | 11°C |
| May | 7°C | 12°C | 17°C |
| June | 12°C | 16°C | 19°C |
| July | 16°C | 20°C | 24°C |
| August | 19°C | 23°C | 26°C |
| September | 16°C | 18°C | 21°C |
| October | 10°C | 14°C | 17°C |
| November | 5°C | 9°C | 12°C |
| December | 1°C | 3°C | 6°C |
Lake Chelan: Water Temperature by Location
Lake Chelan: Weather Forecast
September 22
September 23
September 24
September 25
Location & Local Information
Lake Chelan is a long, deep glacier-carved lake in north-central Washington and its water tends to run cooler than many lower-elevation lakes. Surface temperatures vary through the year: in spring (March–May) the lake typically ranges from about 40–55°F (4–13°C), summer (June–August) highs commonly reach 60–72°F (15–22°C) in the lower lake and near popular beaches, fall (September–November) usually cools to roughly 50–60°F (10–16°C), and winter surface readings often sit around 34–45°F (1–7°C). Because the lake is very deep, thermoclines form and deeper water remains substantially colder than surface measurements even in summer.
Swimming at Lake Chelan is permitted and is a popular summertime activity at parks and public beaches where the surface warms most. However, water temperature and depth create real risks: cold shock and rapid heat loss are possible when entering water below comfortable ranges, and sudden drop-offs mean swimmers can quickly find themselves in much colder, deeper water. For these reasons, most recreational swimming is concentrated in the warmest months, swimmers should exercise caution, use flotation as needed, and consider wetsuits or shorter exposure times outside peak summer temperatures.