Lake Owyhee — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Lake Owyhee, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Lake Owyhee today is 17°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 5 | 17.6°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 6 | 16.9°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 7 | 17.1°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 8 | 16.9°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 9 | 16.7°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 10 | 16.6°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 11 | 16.3°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 17.1°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 13 | 15.5°C | 16.9°C | |
| OCT 14 | 15.5°C | 16.9°C | |
| OCT 15 | 15.5°C | 16.8°C | |
| OCT 16 | 15.5°C | 16.7°C | |
| OCT 17 | 15.5°C | 16.6°C | |
| OCT 18 | 15.5°C | 16.6°C | |
| OCT 19 | 15.5°C | 16.5°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 | 5°C |
| February | 1°C | 4°C | 6°C |
| March | 3°C | 7°C | 11°C |
| April | 5°C | 10°C | 15°C |
| May | 13°C | 17°C | 21°C |
| June | 18°C | 21°C | 24°C |
| July | 21°C | 26°C | 31°C |
| August | 23°C | 27°C | 31°C |
| September | 19°C | 23°C | 27°C |
| October | 9°C | 16°C | 22°C |
| November | 6°C | 9°C | 12°C |
| December | 1°C | 4°C | 8°C |
Lake Owyhee: Water Temperature by Location
Lake Owyhee: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
October 18
Location & Local Information
Lake Owyhee Reservoir, located on the Owyhee River in eastern Oregon, exhibits the seasonal temperature patterns typical of high‑desert reservoirs. Surface temperatures in spring generally range from about 45–65°F (7–18°C) as the water warms after snowmelt. In the warmest months of July through September, surface readings commonly climb to roughly 68–85°F (20–29°C), with the warmest pockets in shallow coves and slow-moving arms of the reservoir. During fall the surface cools back toward 50–68°F (10–20°C), and winter surface temperatures often sit near 35–45°F (2–7°C). Deeper water layers stay much colder year‑round, often around 40°F (4°C) or lower, so temperatures vary considerably by depth and location within the reservoir.
Swimming at Lake Owyhee is permitted and the reservoir is used for recreational swimming, but it requires caution. There are few lifeguarded beaches or extensive facilities, and hazards such as cold‑water shock in shoulder seasons, sudden drop‑offs, submerged objects, boat traffic, and occasional water‑quality advisories can make swimming risky. Because of those factors and the variable temperatures, visitors are advised to choose sheltered, shallower areas in the warmest months, wear flotation devices as needed, and check local conditions before entering the water.