Lake Darling — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Lake Darling, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Lake Darling today is 15°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 6 | 17.3°C | 18.5°C | |
| OCT 7 | 17.1°C | 18.5°C | |
| OCT 8 | 16.0°C | 18.5°C | |
| OCT 9 | 16.6°C | 18.5°C | |
| OCT 10 | 15.5°C | 18.5°C | |
| OCT 11 | 15.4°C | 18.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 15.2°C | 18.5°C | |
| OCT 14 | 18.5°C | 15.2°C | |
| OCT 15 | 18.5°C | 15.4°C | |
| OCT 16 | 18.5°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 17 | 18.5°C | 15.7°C | |
| OCT 18 | 18.5°C | 15.9°C | |
| OCT 19 | 18.5°C | 16.1°C | |
| OCT 20 | 18.5°C | 16.2°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 | 2°C | 4°C |
| February | 0°C | 3°C | 6°C |
| March | 0°C | 5°C | 10°C |
| April | 7°C | 12°C | 18°C |
| May | 14°C | 19°C | 24°C |
| June | 21°C | 24°C | 27°C |
| July | 24°C | 28°C | 31°C |
| August | 23°C | 26°C | 30°C |
| September | 20°C | 23°C | 26°C |
| October | 14°C | 19°C | 23°C |
| November | 3°C | 10°C | 16°C |
| December | 0°C | 3°C | 6°C |
Lake Darling: Water Temperature by Location
Lake Darling: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
October 18
Location & Local Information
Lake Darling, a reservoir in southeastern Iowa, experiences a wide seasonal swing in surface water temperature. In winter the lake commonly approaches freezing, around 32°F (0°C), and often develops ice cover. As spring arrives, surface readings typically climb into the 40s and 50s °F (4–15°C) as the lake mixes and warms. By summer, shallow areas and near-shore zones commonly reach the 70s to low 80s °F (21–28°C), with occasional warm spells pushing temperatures into the mid‑80s °F (about 29°C). In autumn the surface cools again through the 50s and 40s °F (10–4°C) as air temperatures drop and the lake begins to turnover.
Swimming is permitted in the Lake Darling State Park area and is centered around designated beach and day‑use spots, which is why recreational swimming is a regular activity during the warm months. Visitors should note that amenities and supervision vary; lifeguards are not always provided, so swimmers must exercise personal caution. Water quality and clarity can change after heavy rains or during algal bloom events, and local advisories occasionally limit or discourage swimming for health or safety reasons. Checking current park notices before entering the water helps ensure a safer swim.