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 16.9°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 | 17.3°C | 16.0°C | |
| OCT 7 | 16.4°C | 16.0°C | |
| OCT 8 | 16.6°C | 16.0°C | |
| OCT 9 | 17.0°C | 16.0°C | |
| OCT 10 | 16.0°C | 16.0°C | |
| OCT 11 | 16.1°C | 16.0°C | |
| OCT 12 | 16.0°C | 16.0°C | |
| OCT 13 | 15.9°C | 16.0°C | |
| OCT 14 | 16.0°C | 16.9°C | |
| OCT 15 | 16.0°C | 16.8°C | |
| OCT 16 | 16.0°C | 16.8°C | |
| OCT 17 | 16.0°C | 16.7°C | |
| OCT 18 | 16.0°C | 16.7°C | |
| OCT 19 | 16.0°C | 16.6°C | |
| OCT 20 | 16.0°C | 16.6°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 | 30°C |
| September | 21°C | 25°C | 29°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
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
October 18
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.