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 17.9°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 26 | 18.9°C | 23.5°C | |
| OCT 27 | 18.3°C | 23.5°C | |
| OCT 28 | 18.4°C | 23.5°C | |
| OCT 29 | 18.4°C | 23.5°C | |
| OCT 30 | 17.9°C | 23.5°C | |
| OCT 31 | 18.0°C | 23.5°C | |
| NOV 1 | 18.5°C | 16.1°C | |
| NOV 2 | 17.9°C | 16.1°C | |
| NOV 3 | 16.1°C | 17.8°C | |
| NOV 4 | 16.1°C | 17.7°C | |
| NOV 5 | 16.1°C | 17.6°C | |
| NOV 6 | 16.1°C | 17.5°C | |
| NOV 7 | 16.1°C | 17.5°C | |
| NOV 8 | 16.1°C | 17.4°C | |
| NOV 9 | 16.1°C | 17.3°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
November 3
November 4
November 5
November 6
November 7
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.