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 23.1°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 | 24.3°C | 27.5°C | |
| SEP 15 | 24.1°C | 27.5°C | |
| SEP 16 | 23.6°C | 27.5°C | |
| SEP 17 | 24.3°C | 27.5°C | |
| SEP 18 | 24.1°C | 27.5°C | |
| SEP 19 | 23.9°C | 27.5°C | |
| SEP 20 | 23.7°C | 27.5°C | |
| SEP 22 | 27.5°C | 23.3°C | |
| SEP 23 | 27.5°C | 23.5°C | |
| SEP 24 | 27.5°C | 23.8°C | |
| SEP 25 | 27.5°C | 24.0°C | |
| SEP 26 | 27.5°C | 24.2°C | |
| SEP 27 | 27.5°C | 24.4°C | |
| SEP 28 | 27.5°C | 24.6°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
September 21
September 22
September 23
September 24
September 25
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.