Lake Oahe — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Lake Oahe, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Lake Oahe today is 13.1°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 54°F (12°C) to 60°F (15°C). The water is significantly warmer, and swimming becomes possible for most people. However, caution may still be required for prolonged stays in the water, as extended exposure can cause discomfort. This is a suitable temperature range for short swims and for those accustomed to cooler water. For more comfortable swimming, it is recommended to use proper gear. 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 5 | 14.3°C | 10.5°C | |
| OCT 6 | 13.3°C | 10.5°C | |
| OCT 7 | 13.1°C | 10.5°C | |
| OCT 8 | 13.4°C | 10.5°C | |
| OCT 9 | 13.1°C | 10.5°C | |
| OCT 10 | 12.3°C | 10.5°C | |
| OCT 11 | 12.0°C | 10.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 12.4°C | 10.5°C | |
| OCT 13 | 10.5°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 14 | 10.5°C | 12.8°C | |
| OCT 15 | 10.5°C | 12.7°C | |
| OCT 16 | 10.5°C | 12.6°C | |
| OCT 17 | 10.5°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 18 | 10.5°C | 12.3°C | |
| OCT 19 | 10.5°C | 12.2°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 | 1°C | 7°C | 12°C |
| February | 1°C | 8°C | 15°C |
| March | 1°C | 9°C | 17°C |
| April | 3°C | 12°C | 20°C |
| May | 7°C | 14°C | 21°C |
| June | 16°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| July | 17°C | 23°C | 29°C |
| August | 22°C | 25°C | 28°C |
| September | 16°C | 20°C | 23°C |
| October | 5°C | 11°C | 16°C |
| November | 4°C | 7°C | 9°C |
| December | 1°C | 5°C | 8°C |
Lake Oahe: Water Temperature by Location
Lake Oahe: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
Location & Local Information
Lake Oahe, a large Missouri River reservoir that extends into central North Dakota, experiences pronounced seasonal changes in surface water temperature. In winter the lake is commonly at or below freezing, roughly 25–35°F (−4 to 2°C) where ice forms in many bays and shallow areas. Spring sees a gradual rise to about 35–55°F (2–13°C) as snowmelt and runoff cool the surface. By summer the surface typically reaches the warmest values, commonly in the range of 70–80°F (21–27°C) in mid-late summer and occasionally climbing a few degrees higher in sheltered shallows on hot spells. During fall the water cools again, generally falling into the 45–65°F (7–18°C) range before ice return.
Swimming is permitted in many designated recreation areas and public beaches around Lake Oahe because it is managed for multiple recreational uses, but there are practical and safety considerations. Lifeguards are infrequent, boat traffic, wind-driven waves, sudden drop-offs and cold-water shock near deeper channels or after storms all create hazards; areas near the dam or navigation channels may be restricted. Water quality advisories or seasonal closures can occur, so swimmers should choose marked beaches, heed local signage, and be mindful that even in summer deeper or shaded water can still be cool enough to increase risk of hypothermia.