Lake Of The Ozarks — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Lake Of The Ozarks, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Lake Of The Ozarks today is 39°F.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
❌ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges less than 41°F (5°C). Such water is extremely cold and not recommended for swimming without proper preparation. In these conditions, the risk of hypothermia is very high, and prolonged exposure to the water can be hazardous to your health. If you decide to swim, it is important to have the appropriate gear, such as a wetsuit. Typically, only experienced swimmers or those who practice winter swimming venture into such waters. 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| JAN 14 | 41°F | 41°F | |
| JAN 15 | 41°F | 41°F | |
| JAN 16 | 41°F | 41°F | |
| JAN 17 | 41°F | 41°F | |
| JAN 18 | 41°F | 41°F | |
| JAN 19 | 40°F | 41°F | |
| JAN 20 | 39°F | 41°F | |
| JAN 21 | 39°F | 41°F | |
| JAN 22 | 41°F | 39°F | |
| JAN 23 | 41°F | 39°F | |
| JAN 24 | 41°F | 39°F | |
| JAN 25 | 41°F | 39°F | |
| JAN 26 | 41°F | 39°F | |
| JAN 27 | 41°F | 39°F | |
| JAN 28 | 41°F | 39°F |
* 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 | 36°F | 41°F | 46°F |
| February | 36°F | 42°F | 48°F |
| March | 36°F | 44°F | 52°F |
| April | 43°F | 52°F | 61°F |
| May | 61°F | 65°F | 70°F |
| June | 66°F | 73°F | 81°F |
| July | 77°F | 83°F | 90°F |
| August | 73°F | 80°F | 86°F |
| September | 72°F | 79°F | 86°F |
| October | 61°F | 70°F | 79°F |
| November | 46°F | 55°F | 63°F |
| December | 37°F | 46°F | 54°F |
Lake Of The Ozarks: Water Temperature by Location
Lake Of The Ozarks: Weather Forecast
January 22
January 23
January 24
January 25
January 26
January 27
Location & Local Information
Lake of the Ozarks experiences pronounced seasonal swings in surface water temperature. In winter the lake commonly cools to roughly 32–45°F (0–7°C), with occasional colder pockets near inflows. Spring temperatures rise unevenly, moving from about 45–70°F (7–21°C) as warm spells gradually heat shallow bays sooner than deeper channels. Summer brings the warmest conditions, with many shallow coves and popular swimming spots ranging from about 75–85°F (24–29°C) and occasionally climbing into the upper 80s°F (around 30–31°C) during heat waves. In autumn the lake cools again, typically falling from 70°F down into the 40s–50s°F (7–16°C) by late season. Depth, wind, and sunshine all influence local readings, so surface temperatures at a beach can differ from those near deeper navigation channels.
Swimming is allowed in many parts of Lake of the Ozarks and is a popular recreational activity when surface temperatures are comfortable in late spring and summer. Public beaches, resort areas, and sheltered coves are common places for swimmers, but safety concerns—boat traffic, variable currents, submerged structures, and occasional algae or water-quality advisories—mean some areas are discouraged or restricted for swimming. Lifeguards are not universal, and colder water outside summer months poses hypothermia risk, so swimmers should choose designated swimming areas, check local guidance, and use caution.