Lake Frances — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Lake Frances, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Lake Frances today is 14.4°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| SEP 14 | 17.0°C | 16.3°C | |
| SEP 15 | 16.5°C | 16.3°C | |
| SEP 16 | 15.8°C | 16.3°C | |
| SEP 17 | 15.5°C | 16.3°C | |
| SEP 18 | 15.3°C | 16.3°C | |
| SEP 19 | 15.1°C | 16.3°C | |
| SEP 20 | 14.9°C | 16.3°C | |
| SEP 21 | 14.4°C | 16.3°C | |
| SEP 22 | 16.3°C | 14.5°C | |
| SEP 23 | 16.3°C | 14.6°C | |
| SEP 24 | 16.3°C | 14.7°C | |
| SEP 25 | 16.3°C | 14.8°C | |
| SEP 26 | 16.3°C | 14.9°C | |
| SEP 27 | 16.3°C | 15.0°C | |
| SEP 28 | 16.3°C | 15.1°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 | 4°C | 8°C |
| May | 4°C | 9°C | 15°C |
| June | 9°C | 14°C | 19°C |
| July | 15°C | 19°C | 23°C |
| August | 17°C | 20°C | 23°C |
| September | 13°C | 16°C | 20°C |
| October | 4°C | 10°C | 16°C |
| November | 2°C | 7°C | 10°C |
| December | 1°C | 5°C | 7°C |
Lake Frances: Water Temperature by Location
Lake Frances: Weather Forecast
September 22
September 23
September 24
September 25
Location & Local Information
Lake Frances in Montana typically experiences a wide range of surface water temperatures through the year. In spring, melting snow and cool air usually keep surface readings in the roughly 40–60°F range (about 4–16°C). By summer, on sunny days the shallow nearshore water commonly warms to around 60–75°F (16–24°C), although deeper or shaded areas remain noticeably cooler. Early fall sees a gradual decline to about 50–65°F (10–18°C) as air temperatures drop, and in winter the surface usually approaches freezing and can freeze over, near 32°F (0°C) or lower in sustained cold spells. These figures are general; exact temperatures vary with weather, depth, and inflow.
Swimming at Lake Frances is generally permitted because it is used for public recreation, but conditions determine whether it is advisable. Many people swim there in summer when surface temperatures are most comfortable, but there are often no lifeguards and water can be colder than it feels at the surface, creating a hypothermia risk. Seasonal closures or advisories can occur for water quality issues such as algae blooms, and boat traffic or shoreline hazards may limit safe swimming areas. Visitors should check local notices, use caution, and avoid swimming alone or in icy conditions.