Lake Iowa — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Lake Iowa, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Lake Iowa today is 21.6°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
✅ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 68°F (20°C) to 74°F (23°C). The water is warm and pleasant for swimming, and in this range, one can stay in the water for extended periods without the risk of hypothermia. This is the ideal temperature for relaxation, swimming, and water sports. Families with children, as well as outdoor enthusiasts, will enjoy swimming and time spent in the water. For most people, this is the optimal temperature for a comfortable beach experience. 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 16 | 21.7°C | 24.0°C | |
| SEP 17 | 22.0°C | 24.0°C | |
| SEP 18 | 21.2°C | 24.0°C | |
| SEP 19 | 21.6°C | 24.0°C | |
| SEP 20 | 20.7°C | 24.0°C | |
| SEP 21 | 21.4°C | 24.0°C | |
| SEP 22 | 21.9°C | 24.0°C | |
| SEP 23 | 21.6°C | 24.0°C | |
| SEP 24 | 24.0°C | 21.7°C | |
| SEP 25 | 24.0°C | 21.8°C | |
| SEP 26 | 24.0°C | 22.0°C | |
| SEP 27 | 24.0°C | 22.1°C | |
| SEP 28 | 24.0°C | 22.2°C | |
| SEP 29 | 24.0°C | 22.3°C | |
| SEP 30 | 24.0°C | 22.4°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 | 2°C | 5°C |
| February | 0°C | 3°C | 6°C |
| March | 0°C | 5°C | 11°C |
| April | 5°C | 11°C | 17°C |
| May | 12°C | 18°C | 24°C |
| June | 18°C | 23°C | 27°C |
| July | 23°C | 29°C | 34°C |
| August | 22°C | 26°C | 30°C |
| September | 21°C | 24°C | 27°C |
| October | 16°C | 20°C | 23°C |
| November | 1°C | 9°C | 17°C |
| December | 0°C | 3°C | 6°C |
Lake Iowa: Water Temperature by Location
Lake Iowa: Weather Forecast
September 23
September 24
September 25
September 26
September 27
September 28
Location & Local Information
Lake Iowa, like many inland lakes in Iowa, experiences pronounced seasonal shifts in surface water temperature. In winter the surface often chills to near freezing, around 32–40°F (0–4°C). Spring warming typically brings temperatures up into the 40–60°F range (4–16°C) as runoff and air temperatures increase. In summer, shallow areas and surface layers commonly reach their warmest, frequently settling between 70–80°F (21–27°C) and occasionally climbing into the low 80s°F (27–29°C) during heat waves. By autumn the lake cools again, with surface temperatures dropping through the 50–65°F band (10–18°C) as air temperatures fall and the lake begins to turnover.
Swimming is generally permitted at Iowa lakes during the warmer months, especially at designated beaches and recreation areas where local authorities monitor water quality and safety. Most people find water above about 70°F (21°C) comfortable for extended swims; cooler waters can still be swimmable but increase the risk of rapid cooling and reduced endurance. Access can be restricted or advisories posted if bacteria counts are high, harmful algal blooms occur, or ice and cold conditions make swimming unsafe. Visitors should check local signage and current conditions before entering the water.