Lake McConaughy — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Lake McConaughy, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Lake McConaughy today is 20.3°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 13 | 19.9°C | 20.0°C | |
| SEP 14 | 20.0°C | 20.0°C | |
| SEP 15 | 20.0°C | 20.0°C | |
| SEP 16 | 20.3°C | 20.0°C | |
| SEP 17 | 19.8°C | 20.0°C | |
| SEP 18 | 20.2°C | 20.0°C | |
| SEP 19 | 19.5°C | 20.0°C | |
| SEP 20 | 19.8°C | 20.0°C | |
| SEP 21 | 20.0°C | 20.3°C | |
| SEP 22 | 20.0°C | 20.3°C | |
| SEP 23 | 20.0°C | 20.3°C | |
| SEP 24 | 20.0°C | 20.2°C | |
| SEP 25 | 20.0°C | 20.2°C | |
| SEP 26 | 20.0°C | 20.2°C | |
| SEP 27 | 20.0°C | 20.2°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 | 3°C | 6°C |
| February | 0°C | 2°C | 5°C |
| March | 0°C | 4°C | 9°C |
| April | 6°C | 12°C | 17°C |
| May | 12°C | 16°C | 20°C |
| June | 16°C | 20°C | 24°C |
| July | 21°C | 24°C | 28°C |
| August | 23°C | 26°C | 28°C |
| September | 16°C | 20°C | 24°C |
| October | 10°C | 15°C | 20°C |
| November | 5°C | 9°C | 12°C |
| December | 0°C | 3°C | 7°C |
Lake McConaughy: Water Temperature by Location
Lake McConaughy: Weather Forecast
September 21
September 22
September 23
September 24
September 25
Location & Local Information
Lake McConaughy is a large reservoir on the North Platte River whose surface temperatures vary substantially through the year. In spring the water is typically cool, often in the 40–60°F range (4–16°C) as snowmelt and inflow keep temperatures low. By summer surface conditions warm, with many areas commonly reaching 65–80°F (18–27°C) and, in shallow bays on hot afternoons, occasionally a few degrees warmer. Autumn brings a steady cooling back toward 50–65°F (10–18°C), and winter waters hover near freezing in shallower parts and generally range from about 32–45°F (0–7°C) depending on ice, wind and inlet flows. Because the lake is large and relatively deep in places, temperatures can show considerable variation between shallow shoreline zones and deeper open-water areas.
Swimming is allowed at Lake McConaughy within the state recreation areas and on beaches managed for public use, because the reservoir is a designated recreational facility with maintained access and amenities. However, swimmers should be aware of hazards: there is no widespread lifeguard coverage, boat traffic and sudden drop-offs occur, and cooler or rapidly changing temperatures can increase risk of hypothermia or difficulty. Water quality is monitored but can change with runoff and algal conditions, so visitors are advised to follow posted guidance, choose designated swim areas, and consider seasonal temperatures when planning to enter the water.