Lake Manawa — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Lake Manawa, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Lake Manawa today is 24.5°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
✅ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 75°F (23°C) to 79°F (26°C). This is a very comfortable temperature for swimming, and many people can enjoy prolonged stays in the water without feeling cold. The water is pleasantly warm, making it ideal for relaxation and water sports. This temperature range is particularly popular among tourists, as it combines comfort and safety for health. 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| JUN 23 | 23.8°C | 23.5°C | |
| JUN 24 | 23.8°C | 23.5°C | |
| JUN 25 | 24.0°C | 23.5°C | |
| JUN 26 | 24.1°C | 23.5°C | |
| JUN 27 | 24.3°C | 23.5°C | |
| JUN 28 | 24.7°C | 23.5°C | |
| JUN 29 | 24.7°C | 23.5°C | |
| JUN 30 | 24.5°C | 23.5°C | |
| JUL 1 | 27.5°C | 24.7°C | |
| JUL 2 | 27.5°C | 24.8°C | |
| JUL 3 | 27.5°C | 25.0°C | |
| JUL 4 | 27.5°C | 25.1°C | |
| JUL 5 | 27.5°C | 25.3°C | |
| JUL 6 | 27.5°C | 25.4°C | |
| JUL 7 | 27.5°C | 25.6°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 | 1°C | 4°C | 7°C |
| March | 1°C | 6°C | 11°C |
| April | 6°C | 11°C | 17°C |
| May | 13°C | 18°C | 24°C |
| June | 20°C | 24°C | 27°C |
| July | 24°C | 28°C | 31°C |
| August | 24°C | 27°C | 29°C |
| September | 21°C | 24°C | 27°C |
| October | 11°C | 16°C | 21°C |
| November | 4°C | 10°C | 15°C |
| December | 0°C | 3°C | 7°C |
Lake Manawa: Water Temperature by Location
Lake Manawa: Weather Forecast
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July 4
July 5
July 6
Location & Local Information
Lake Manawa, a small recreational reservoir in southwest Iowa, experiences the full range of Midwestern seasonal water temperatures. In winter the surface often approaches freezing, roughly 32–40°F (0–4°C), and may ice over during cold spells. Spring sees a steady rise as runoff and warmer air push surface temperatures into the 40–60°F (4–16°C) range. Peak summer temperatures typically occur from June through August, when shallow areas commonly reach about 70–82°F (21–28°C) and can climb into the mid‑80s (around 29–30°C) on hot, calm days. During autumn the lake cools again, with surface readings generally falling to roughly 50–60°F (10–16°C) before winter sets in. These are approximate ranges and can vary day to day, by depth, and year to year depending on weather and wind.
Swimming is generally allowed at Lake Manawa’s designated beach and marked swimming areas because the site is managed as a recreational facility within the state park. Park staff monitor conditions and water quality, and lifeguards or formal supervision may be present seasonally; however, authorities will post advisories or close the beach when harmful algal blooms, elevated bacteria counts, sudden debris, or hazardous weather create health or safety risks. Visitors should check current park notices and water‑quality updates before entering the water.