Lake Elwell — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Lake Elwell, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Lake Elwell today is 13.6°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 | 14.6°C | 10.5°C | |
| OCT 6 | 13.7°C | 10.5°C | |
| OCT 7 | 13.9°C | 10.5°C | |
| OCT 8 | 13.6°C | 10.5°C | |
| OCT 9 | 13.4°C | 10.5°C | |
| OCT 10 | 12.7°C | 10.5°C | |
| OCT 11 | 13.0°C | 10.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 14.0°C | 10.5°C | |
| OCT 13 | 10.5°C | 13.4°C | |
| OCT 14 | 10.5°C | 13.3°C | |
| OCT 15 | 10.5°C | 13.1°C | |
| OCT 16 | 10.5°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 17 | 10.5°C | 12.8°C | |
| OCT 18 | 10.5°C | 12.7°C | |
| OCT 19 | 10.5°C | 12.5°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 | 1°C | 4°C | 6°C |
| February | 1°C | 4°C | 7°C |
| March | 1°C | 5°C | 9°C |
| April | 0°C | 6°C | 12°C |
| May | 4°C | 10°C | 17°C |
| June | 9°C | 15°C | 21°C |
| July | 16°C | 21°C | 26°C |
| August | 17°C | 21°C | 25°C |
| September | 13°C | 17°C | 22°C |
| October | 4°C | 11°C | 17°C |
| November | 3°C | 7°C | 10°C |
| December | 2°C | 7°C | 10°C |
Lake Elwell: Water Temperature by Location
Lake Elwell: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
Location & Local Information
Lake Elwell is a large reservoir in north-central Montana whose surface temperatures vary substantially by season. In spring (April–May) the water is typically cool, roughly 40–55°F (4–13°C) as runoff and spring chill keep the lake cold. By early to mid-summer (June–August) surface temperatures commonly warm into the 60–75°F range (15–24°C), and on warm late-summer days shallow bays can approach 75–80°F (24–27°C). In early fall (September–October) temperatures usually fall back into the 45–60°F range (7–16°C). In winter the lake is cold enough for ice formation in many years, with surface water and ice near freezing around 32–39°F (0–4°C).
Swimming at Lake Elwell is generally permitted at public access points, but conditions merit caution. The warmest and most comfortable window for swimming is the summer months when surface temperatures are highest; outside that period cold water can cause rapid loss of body heat and increase hypothermia risk. There are often limited developed beaches, few or no lifeguards, and boat traffic and sudden drop-offs can create hazards, so swimmers should use common-sense precautions, wear flotation as needed, heed local signage and advisories, and check current conditions before entering the water.