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Lake James

Lake James Current Water Temperature and Forecast

On this page, you will find comprehensive information about the water temperature in Lake James, including current readings, historical data and trends, monthly averages, as well as weather forecasts and upcoming temperature predictions. We find every spot where you can swim and tell you what the water temperature is there today and throughout the year.

Current Lake Water Temperature Information

44°F

TODAY

45°F

YESTERDAY

47°F

A WEEK AGO

As of today, the minimum water temperature in the Lake James ranges from 41°F (5°C) to 47°F (8°C). This water temperature is still quite low, and swimming in such conditions may only be comfortable for hardened individuals. It is recommended to limit the time spent in the water to avoid hypothermia. For those not accustomed to cold water, it is better to refrain from swimming. However, if you decide to enter the water, it is advisable to wear a warm wetsuit for protection against the cold.

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.

Analysis, Historical Data, and Forecast of Water Temperature

Water Temperature Chart for Lake James Over the Last 30 Days

Today the water temperature in Lake James is lower than the same day in previous years. The water temperature range here in February is from 37°F to 54°F. The water temperature has decreased over the past 7 days but has increased over the past month.

The forecasted water temperature values for Lake James are presented in the table below.

The actual water temperature values near the shore may differ by a few degrees from the stated values. For the development of the forecast, we use our own mathematical model that takes into account the current water temperature changes, historical data, and key weather trends, including wind strength and direction, and air temperature in each specific region.

Daily Water Temperature Chart

DateCurrentAverageForecast
Feb 1647°F46°F
Feb 1748°F46°F
Feb 1848°F46°F
Feb 1948°F46°F
Feb 2048°F46°F
Feb 2147°F46°F
Feb 2245°F46°F
Feb 2344°F46°F
Feb 2446°F44°F
Feb 2546°F44°F
Feb 2646°F44°F
Feb 2746°F44°F
Feb 2846°F44°F
Mar 149°F45°F
Mar 249°F45°F
Mar 349°F45°F
* Current - Actual water temperature value
** Average - Average water temperature on this day in recent years
*** Forecast - Our water temperature forecast

Water Temperature Ranges in Lake James by Month

January

MinimumAverageMaximum
37°F46°F54°F

February

MinimumAverageMaximum
37°F46°F54°F

March

MinimumAverageMaximum
45°F49°F54°F

April

MinimumAverageMaximum
57°F62°F66°F

May

MinimumAverageMaximum
64°F69°F73°F

June

MinimumAverageMaximum
73°F77°F81°F

July

MinimumAverageMaximum
75°F80°F84°F

August

MinimumAverageMaximum
77°F81°F86°F

September

MinimumAverageMaximum
75°F80°F84°F

October

MinimumAverageMaximum
72°F76°F81°F

November

MinimumAverageMaximum
57°F61°F66°F

December

MinimumAverageMaximum
48°F52°F57°F

Monthly Water Temperature Histogram for Lake James

Known Beaches in the Area of Lake James?

Lake James State Park

Lake James State Park is a 3-stars sandy beach, located in a 3 km (2 miles) radius of Lake James. There are lifeguards on the beach. There is parking. There are restrooms. Lake James State Park is an excellent spot for fishing enthusiasts, offering good opportunities to catch local fish.

Link to the location of the beach

Lake James Weather

FEBRUARY 24

32°F / 59°F
overcast

rain: 1% | wind: 6 mph

FEBRUARY 25

36°F / 66°F
overcast

rain: 3% | wind: 4 mph

FEBRUARY 26

45°F / 64°F
overcast

rain: 3% | wind: 9 mph

FEBRUARY 27

45°F / 57°F
overcast

rain: 26% | wind: 12 mph

FEBRUARY 28

37°F / 57°F
overcast

rain: 24% | wind: 11 mph

Water Temperature in Lake James: General Trends and Swimming Opportunities

Lake James is located in the state of North Carolina, in the counties of Burke, McDowell, at an elevation of 1194 feet (364 meters) above sea level.

Lake James is a medium lake. Its surface area is 9.3 sq mi (24.1 sq km). Typically versatile lakes with developed ecosystems; popular for water sports and tourism.

The water temperature in Lake James varies throughout the year, ranging from 45°F (7°C) in January to 86°F (30°C) in August. The average annual water temperature of the lake is 66°F (19°C). The months when the average water temperature in Lake James exceeds 68 degrees Fahrenheit (20°C) are May, June, July, August, September and October.

The nearest cities ans towns to Lake James are: Marion, Glen Alpine, West Marion, Morganton, Salem, Spruce Pine, Drexel, Valdese, Gamewell, Cajahs Mountain in North Carolina.

Geographical Location of Lake James

Frequently Asked Questions About Lake James and its Water Temperatures

What is the current water temperature in Lake James?

The water temperature today in Lake James is 44°F (6.8°C).

What is the water temperature in Lake James during the summer months?

The average water temperature in Lake James during the summer months is typically between 77°F to 81°F (25°C to 27°C), and it can reach up to 86°F (30°C) at its warmest. However, in some years, the temperature may exceed this range.

What is the water temperature in Lake James in May?

The average water temperature in Lake James in May ranges from 64°F to 73°F (18°C to 23°C).

What is the water temperature in Lake James in September?

The average water temperature in Lake James in September is typically between 75°F to 84°F (24°C to 29°C).

Where is Lake James located?

Lake James is located in the United States in the state of North Carolina, in the counties of Burke, McDowell, at an elevation of 1194 feet (364 meters) above sea level. The surface area of the lake is 9.320 sq mi (24.14 sq km).

Is it possible to swim in Lake James and what are the possibilities for this?

Yes, it is possible to swim in Lake James, North Carolina. Activities include recreational swimming, along with boating, canoeing, and camping opportunities around the lake.

What are the coordinates of Lake James?

Lake James is located at coordinates 35.7550°N 81.9190°W.

Is Lake Lake James a popular vacation spot among Americans?

Lake James is quite popular among Americans and ranks among the top 500 lakes in the United States.

What species of fish can be found in Lake James?

Lake James is home to fish species such as Largemouth bass (best caught in Spring, Fall), Smallmouth bass (Spring, Fall), Spotted bass (Spring, Fall), White bass (Spring, Summer), Bluegill (Spring, Summer), Redear sunfish (Spring, Summer), Black crappie (Spring, Fall), White crappie (Spring, Fall), Channel catfish (Spring, Summer), Flathead catfish (Spring, Summer), Yellow perch (Spring, Winter), Walleye (Spring, Fall).