Lake Wapello — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Lake Wapello, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Lake Wapello today is 17.2°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 6 | 18.3°C | 18.5°C | |
| OCT 7 | 18.4°C | 18.5°C | |
| OCT 8 | 17.9°C | 18.5°C | |
| OCT 9 | 18.1°C | 18.5°C | |
| OCT 10 | 17.3°C | 18.5°C | |
| OCT 11 | 17.1°C | 18.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 16.9°C | 18.5°C | |
| OCT 13 | 16.7°C | 18.5°C | |
| OCT 14 | 18.5°C | 17.3°C | |
| OCT 15 | 18.5°C | 17.3°C | |
| OCT 16 | 18.5°C | 17.4°C | |
| OCT 17 | 18.5°C | 17.5°C | |
| OCT 18 | 18.5°C | 17.5°C | |
| OCT 19 | 18.5°C | 17.6°C | |
| OCT 20 | 18.5°C | 17.7°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 | 1°C | 4°C |
| February | 0°C | 1°C | 4°C |
| March | 0°C | 6°C | 13°C |
| April | 7°C | 12°C | 18°C |
| May | 14°C | 19°C | 24°C |
| June | 19°C | 22°C | 25°C |
| July | 24°C | 30°C | 35°C |
| August | 23°C | 26°C | 29°C |
| September | 22°C | 26°C | 29°C |
| October | 14°C | 19°C | 23°C |
| November | 2°C | 9°C | 16°C |
| December | 0°C | 3°C | 6°C |
Lake Wapello: Water Temperature by Location
Lake Wapello: Weather Forecast
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
October 18
Location & Local Information
Lake Wapello, a manufactured lake inside Lake Wapello State Park in southern Iowa, experiences strong seasonal swings in surface temperature. In spring the water typically runs cold, roughly 45–65°F (7–18°C) as the lake recovers from winter. By summer, surface temperatures commonly warm into the 70–82°F (21–28°C) range on sunny days, with shallow nearshore water often a few degrees warmer than the deeper areas. During fall the surface cools again to around 50–65°F (10–18°C) as air temperatures drop, and in winter the lake approaches freezing with surface ice possible around 32°F (0°C) and below. Temperature can vary with depth, wind and recent weather, so readings at the shore can differ from mid-lake values.
Swimming is allowed seasonally at the park’s designated swim beach and in other permitted shoreline areas when conditions warrant, making summer the most comfortable time for recreational swimming due to warmer surface temperatures. The beach is open on a seasonal schedule determined by the park; outside that period and during ice cover swimming is not appropriate. Visitors should observe posted signs and advisories, be aware of cooler pockets or sudden temperature changes near deeper water, and follow basic water-safety guidance before entering.