Lake Icaria — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Lake Icaria, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Lake Icaria today is 15.3°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| OCT 6 | 17.6°C | 16.5°C | |
| OCT 7 | 16.8°C | 16.5°C | |
| OCT 8 | 16.5°C | 16.5°C | |
| OCT 9 | 16.6°C | 16.5°C | |
| OCT 10 | 16.0°C | 16.5°C | |
| OCT 11 | 16.2°C | 16.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 15.4°C | 16.5°C | |
| OCT 13 | 15.1°C | 16.5°C | |
| OCT 14 | 16.5°C | 15.4°C | |
| OCT 15 | 16.5°C | 15.4°C | |
| OCT 16 | 16.5°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 17 | 16.5°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 18 | 16.5°C | 15.6°C | |
| OCT 19 | 16.5°C | 15.7°C | |
| OCT 20 | 16.5°C | 15.7°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 | 2°C | 4°C |
| March | 0°C | 5°C | 10°C |
| April | 7°C | 12°C | 18°C |
| May | 13°C | 17°C | 22°C |
| June | 19°C | 23°C | 26°C |
| July | 24°C | 28°C | 32°C |
| August | 23°C | 27°C | 30°C |
| September | 19°C | 22°C | 26°C |
| October | 12°C | 17°C | 21°C |
| November | 5°C | 10°C | 14°C |
| December | 2°C | 5°C | 8°C |
Lake Icaria: Water Temperature by Location
Lake Icaria: Weather Forecast
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
October 18
Location & Local Information
Lake Icaria’s surface temperature varies through the year in line with Iowa’s seasonal climate. In winter months the water commonly hovers around freezing, roughly 32–40°F (0–4°C) and can ice over during sustained cold spells. Spring sees a gradual warm-up, with surface readings typically in the 40–60°F range (4–15°C) as the lake moves toward stratification. Peak summer temperatures usually occur from June through August, when surface waters often reach about 70–82°F (21–28°C) and can exceed 85°F (29°C) during heat waves. In autumn the lake cools again, with surface temperatures commonly dropping to 50–65°F (10–18°C) as the season progresses and turnover begins.
Swimming is allowed at the park-managed beach and within the designated roped swimming area, which is provided because the lake is used for multiple recreational purposes. Facilities and access are seasonal and conditions can change, so lifeguard coverage and formal supervision vary by time and event. Occasional advisories or temporary closures may be issued for water-quality concerns such as blue-green algae, elevated bacteria, severe weather, or ice, which are the main reasons swimming may be restricted. For safe recreation, swimmers should follow posted notices and use judgement about temperature, currents and visible water conditions.