Lake Placid — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Lake Placid, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Lake Placid today is 18°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| SEP 13 | 18.4°C | 19.0°C | |
| SEP 14 | 17.8°C | 19.0°C | |
| SEP 15 | 18.9°C | 19.0°C | |
| SEP 16 | 18.2°C | 19.0°C | |
| SEP 17 | 18.1°C | 19.0°C | |
| SEP 18 | 17.8°C | 19.0°C | |
| SEP 19 | 18.3°C | 19.0°C | |
| SEP 20 | 18.7°C | 19.0°C | |
| SEP 21 | 19.0°C | 18.1°C | |
| SEP 22 | 19.0°C | 18.1°C | |
| SEP 23 | 19.0°C | 18.2°C | |
| SEP 24 | 19.0°C | 18.2°C | |
| SEP 25 | 19.0°C | 18.3°C | |
| SEP 26 | 19.0°C | 18.3°C | |
| SEP 27 | 19.0°C | 18.4°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 | 4°C |
| February | 0°C | 2°C | 5°C |
| March | 0°C | 3°C | 6°C |
| April | 0°C | 6°C | 12°C |
| May | 5°C | 11°C | 16°C |
| June | 12°C | 17°C | 20°C |
| July | 18°C | 24°C | 29°C |
| August | 19°C | 22°C | 25°C |
| September | 16°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| October | 11°C | 14°C | 17°C |
| November | 3°C | 8°C | 13°C |
| December | 0°C | 4°C | 7°C |
Lake Placid: Water Temperature by Location
Lake Placid: Weather Forecast
September 21
September 22
September 23
September 24
September 25
Location & Local Information
Lake Placid, the lake that borders the village in New York’s Adirondacks, is characteristically cool year-round. Surface water temperatures typically run from near freezing in winter—around 32–39°F (0–4°C) under ice—to the low 60s and mid-70s in summer. Rough seasonal ranges are roughly 34–55°F (1–13°C) in spring as the lake stratifies and warms, about 60–75°F (15–24°C) in peak summer on warm afternoons, and then cooling back to 45–60°F (7–16°C) in fall. Deeper water remains substantially colder than the surface, and temperature can vary with weather, wind and cloud cover; late-summer heat waves can push surface readings a few degrees higher, while cool spells bring them down quickly.
Swimming is allowed and commonly practiced during the warm months, especially at designated public beaches and park areas maintained for recreation. However, the lake’s modest summer temperatures and cold, deep layers mean swimmers should be mindful of cold shock and the risk of hypothermia after prolonged exposure; even comfortable-sounding temperatures in the low 60s (around 15–17°C) can feel brisk. In winter the lake is typically ice-covered and not suitable for casual swimming, with any ice- or cold-water plunges reserved for experienced, well-prepared participants under controlled conditions.