Lake Wappapello — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Lake Wappapello, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Lake Wappapello today is 14°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 54°F (12°C) to 60°F (15°C). The water is significantly warmer, and swimming becomes possible for most people. However, caution may still be required for prolonged stays in the water, as extended exposure can cause discomfort. This is a suitable temperature range for short swims and for those accustomed to cooler water. For more comfortable swimming, it is recommended to use proper gear. 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 | 16.2°C | 20.0°C | |
| OCT 27 | 16.7°C | 20.0°C | |
| OCT 28 | 16.2°C | 20.0°C | |
| OCT 29 | 15.5°C | 20.0°C | |
| OCT 30 | 14.7°C | 20.0°C | |
| OCT 31 | 15.1°C | 20.0°C | |
| NOV 1 | 14.3°C | 12.7°C | |
| NOV 2 | 14.0°C | 12.7°C | |
| NOV 3 | 12.7°C | 13.9°C | |
| NOV 4 | 12.7°C | 13.9°C | |
| NOV 5 | 12.7°C | 13.8°C | |
| NOV 6 | 12.7°C | 13.7°C | |
| NOV 7 | 12.7°C | 13.7°C | |
| NOV 8 | 12.7°C | 13.6°C | |
| NOV 9 | 12.7°C | 13.5°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 | 1°C | 5°C | 9°C |
| February | 0°C | 4°C | 8°C |
| March | 3°C | 9°C | 15°C |
| April | 10°C | 15°C | 21°C |
| May | 16°C | 21°C | 25°C |
| June | 21°C | 25°C | 28°C |
| July | 24°C | 28°C | 31°C |
| August | 24°C | 28°C | 33°C |
| September | 23°C | 28°C | 32°C |
| October | 16°C | 20°C | 24°C |
| November | 9°C | 13°C | 16°C |
| December | 5°C | 8°C | 10°C |
Lake Wappapello: Water Temperature by Location
Lake Wappapello: Weather Forecast
November 3
November 4
November 5
November 6
November 7
Location & Local Information
Lake Wappapello is a Corps-managed reservoir in southeastern Missouri where surface water temperatures change considerably through the year. In spring the lake often runs cool, roughly 45–65°F (7–18°C) as air temperatures warm and stratification is weak. By summer the surface commonly warms to about 75–85°F (24–29°C), making shallow coves and nearshore areas most comfortable for swimmers; however, deeper water remains noticeably cooler below the thermocline. In autumn the surface cools back into the 50–70°F (10–21°C) range as the lake releases summer heat, and winter temperatures can drop into the upper 30s to mid-40s°F (3–7°C) near the surface, with ice possible in some years on protected bays.
Swimming at Lake Wappapello is permitted at designated access points and beaches maintained by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and local recreation areas, so there is not a general prohibition on entering the water. That allowance exists because the lake provides public recreation and has established shoreline access, but swimmers are expected to follow posted rules. There are typically no lifeguards, and conditions can be hazardous due to boat traffic, sudden drop-offs, submerged timber, and cold-water risk in shoulder seasons, so swimming is done at one’s own risk and best during the warmest months when surface temperatures are highest.