Lake Murray — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Lake Murray, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Lake Murray today is 17.5°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 26 | 19.4°C | 23.3°C | |
| OCT 27 | 19.2°C | 23.3°C | |
| OCT 28 | 19.3°C | 23.3°C | |
| OCT 29 | 19.0°C | 23.3°C | |
| OCT 30 | 18.1°C | 23.3°C | |
| OCT 31 | 18.3°C | 23.3°C | |
| NOV 1 | 18.4°C | 16.5°C | |
| NOV 2 | 17.5°C | 16.5°C | |
| NOV 3 | 16.5°C | 17.5°C | |
| NOV 4 | 16.5°C | 17.4°C | |
| NOV 5 | 16.5°C | 17.4°C | |
| NOV 6 | 16.5°C | 17.3°C | |
| NOV 7 | 16.5°C | 17.3°C | |
| NOV 8 | 16.5°C | 17.2°C | |
| NOV 9 | 16.5°C | 17.2°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 | 5°C | 9°C | 13°C |
| February | 4°C | 8°C | 12°C |
| March | 4°C | 12°C | 19°C |
| April | 14°C | 18°C | 23°C |
| May | 18°C | 22°C | 26°C |
| June | 21°C | 24°C | 27°C |
| July | 24°C | 29°C | 33°C |
| August | 26°C | 30°C | 33°C |
| September | 24°C | 28°C | 32°C |
| October | 21°C | 23°C | 26°C |
| November | 12°C | 17°C | 21°C |
| December | 8°C | 11°C | 14°C |
Lake Murray: Water Temperature by Location
Lake Murray: Weather Forecast
November 3
November 4
November 5
November 6
November 7
Location & Local Information
Lake Murray’s surface water temperatures change noticeably through the year. In winter the lake is cold, often hovering near freezing up to the low 50s°F (around 0–10°C) depending on air temperatures and recent weather. As spring warms, surface readings commonly climb into the 50s and 60s°F (10–20°C) before summer brings the warmest conditions; midsummer surface temperatures typically sit in the mid-70s to mid-80s°F (about 24–29°C) and on hot spells can push into the upper 80s or low 90s°F (around 31–33°C). In autumn the water generally cools again into the 60s and 70s°F (15–25°C). Deeper water remains colder year-round, and temperatures vary by time of day, wind, and storm events.
Swimming at Lake Murray is permitted and is a common recreational use, especially at the state park’s designated beach and launch areas where facilities and lifeguard provisions may be present seasonally. Authorities allow swimming because the lake is managed for public recreation, but swimmers should follow posted rules and watch for advisories about water quality, algae, or hazardous conditions. Cold water in shoulder seasons, boat traffic, submerged structure, and variable visibility make caution and life jacket use advisable, and local staff or signage indicate when swimming is recommended or restricted.