Lake Waccamaw — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Lake Waccamaw, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Lake Waccamaw today is 25.7°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
✅ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 75°F (23°C) to 79°F (26°C). This is a very comfortable temperature for swimming, and many people can enjoy prolonged stays in the water without feeling cold. The water is pleasantly warm, making it ideal for relaxation and water sports. This temperature range is particularly popular among tourists, as it combines comfort and safety for health. 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 14 | 25.3°C | 27.5°C | |
| SEP 15 | 25.7°C | 27.5°C | |
| SEP 16 | 25.9°C | 27.5°C | |
| SEP 17 | 24.8°C | 27.5°C | |
| SEP 18 | 25.4°C | 27.5°C | |
| SEP 19 | 25.4°C | 27.5°C | |
| SEP 20 | 25.3°C | 27.5°C | |
| SEP 21 | 25.7°C | 27.5°C | |
| SEP 22 | 27.5°C | 25.8°C | |
| SEP 23 | 27.5°C | 25.9°C | |
| SEP 24 | 27.5°C | 26.0°C | |
| SEP 25 | 27.5°C | 26.1°C | |
| SEP 26 | 27.5°C | 26.2°C | |
| SEP 27 | 27.5°C | 26.2°C | |
| SEP 28 | 27.5°C | 26.3°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 | 6°C | 10°C | 14°C |
| February | 3°C | 10°C | 16°C |
| March | 8°C | 14°C | 20°C |
| April | 14°C | 18°C | 23°C |
| May | 17°C | 22°C | 28°C |
| June | 21°C | 27°C | 32°C |
| July | 22°C | 27°C | 33°C |
| August | 23°C | 29°C | 34°C |
| September | 23°C | 28°C | 32°C |
| October | 19°C | 24°C | 28°C |
| November | 12°C | 16°C | 20°C |
| December | 7°C | 11°C | 15°C |
Lake Waccamaw: Water Temperature by Location
Lake Waccamaw: Weather Forecast
September 21
September 22
September 23
September 24
September 25
September 26
Location & Local Information
Lake Waccamaw’s water temperatures are moderate for a Carolina bay lake, influenced in part by groundwater inputs that help buffer extreme swings. Typical surface temperatures in summer range from about 75–85°F (24–29°C), with the warmest afternoons occasionally approaching the upper 80s°F (around 31°C) on hot spells. In spring the lake usually warms from roughly 55–70°F (13–21°C), while fall sees a gradual cooling through the 65–75°F (18–24°C) band as ambient air temperatures drop. Winter surface readings commonly sit between about 40–55°F (4–13°C), though deeper or spring-fed areas may remain a few degrees warmer. These figures are approximate and vary with weather, wind, and water depth.
Swimming in Lake Waccamaw is generally allowed and is a common recreational activity, with public access points and a park beach providing places to enter the water. The lake’s water quality is often suitable for swimming, but there are no constant lifeguard services at most sites and occasional advisories can be issued for algal blooms or bacterial contamination. Swimmers should exercise normal precautions: check current local advisories, be mindful of submerged vegetation and variable depths, and understand that cooler-season swims can be uncomfortable or hazardous without thermal protection such as a wetsuit.