Lake Shawnee — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Lake Shawnee, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Lake Shawnee today is 18.4°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 65°F (18°C) to 68°F (20°C). This is already quite warm water, which is ideal for most people. Swimming becomes comfortable, and prolonged stays in the water do not cause discomfort. This temperature is perfect for family trips and for those who prefer warmer water. It is also comfortable for water sports such as surfing or swimming. 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 6 | 20.1°C | 18.0°C | |
| OCT 7 | 19.4°C | 18.0°C | |
| OCT 8 | 19.3°C | 18.0°C | |
| OCT 9 | 19.4°C | 18.0°C | |
| OCT 10 | 18.9°C | 18.0°C | |
| OCT 11 | 18.7°C | 18.0°C | |
| OCT 12 | 18.7°C | 18.0°C | |
| OCT 13 | 18.4°C | 18.0°C | |
| OCT 14 | 18.0°C | 18.4°C | |
| OCT 15 | 18.0°C | 18.4°C | |
| OCT 16 | 18.0°C | 18.3°C | |
| OCT 17 | 18.0°C | 18.3°C | |
| OCT 18 | 18.0°C | 18.3°C | |
| OCT 19 | 18.0°C | 18.3°C | |
| OCT 20 | 18.0°C | 18.3°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 | 3°C | 5°C |
| February | 1°C | 5°C | 9°C |
| March | 2°C | 9°C | 15°C |
| April | 9°C | 15°C | 20°C |
| May | 16°C | 21°C | 25°C |
| June | 19°C | 25°C | 30°C |
| July | 23°C | 29°C | 35°C |
| August | 24°C | 28°C | 31°C |
| September | 20°C | 24°C | 28°C |
| October | 14°C | 18°C | 22°C |
| November | 6°C | 12°C | 17°C |
| December | 2°C | 5°C | 8°C |
Lake Shawnee: Water Temperature by Location
Lake Shawnee: Weather Forecast
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
Location & Local Information
Lake Shawnee, a municipal reservoir near Topeka, follows the typical seasonal warm‑up and cool‑down patterns of small inland Kansas lakes. During winter the surface often falls into the mid‑30s to mid‑40s °F (2–7 °C). In spring temperatures commonly rise through the 40s and 50s °F as runoff and cooler air persist (about 7–15 °C). By summer the lake frequently reaches the mid‑70s to mid‑80s °F (24–29 °C), and in warm spells surface readings can briefly climb into the upper‑80s °F (30 °C) in shallow bays. Early fall brings a gradual decline, with surface values often in the 60s to low 70s °F (16–23 °C) before cooling back toward winter levels. These are approximate surface ranges; deeper water stays colder and local weather, wind and sunlight cause day‑to‑day variation.
Swimming at Lake Shawnee is generally confined to park‑designated areas and is subject to local rules and water‑quality advisories. Recreational bathing is most practical in summer when surface temperatures are comfortable; outside that season cold water increases risk of hypothermia or cold‑water shock. Authorities may close or restrict access when bacteria or blue‑green algae are detected, after heavy rains that raise turbidity, or for safety reasons. Visitors should follow posted guidance, check current advisories before entering the water, and remember that shallower parts warm faster while deeper areas remain significantly cooler.