Lewis and Clark Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Lewis and Clark Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Lewis and Clark Lake today is 19.6°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 65°F (18°C) to 68°F (20°C). This is already quite warm water, which is ideal for most people. Swimming becomes comfortable, and prolonged stays in the water do not cause discomfort. This temperature is perfect for family trips and for those who prefer warmer water. It is also comfortable for water sports such as surfing or swimming. 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 13 | 21.6°C | 22.3°C | |
| SEP 14 | 21.3°C | 22.3°C | |
| SEP 15 | 21.3°C | 22.3°C | |
| SEP 16 | 20.9°C | 22.3°C | |
| SEP 17 | 20.3°C | 22.3°C | |
| SEP 18 | 20.2°C | 22.3°C | |
| SEP 19 | 19.2°C | 22.3°C | |
| SEP 20 | 19.8°C | 22.3°C | |
| SEP 21 | 22.3°C | 19.7°C | |
| SEP 22 | 22.3°C | 19.9°C | |
| SEP 23 | 22.3°C | 20.0°C | |
| SEP 24 | 22.3°C | 20.1°C | |
| SEP 25 | 22.3°C | 20.3°C | |
| SEP 26 | 22.3°C | 20.4°C | |
| SEP 27 | 22.3°C | 20.5°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 | 0°C | 1°C | 4°C |
| February | 0°C | 3°C | 6°C |
| March | 1°C | 5°C | 9°C |
| April | 5°C | 9°C | 14°C |
| May | 11°C | 17°C | 24°C |
| June | 17°C | 20°C | 23°C |
| July | 21°C | 25°C | 29°C |
| August | 22°C | 25°C | 29°C |
| September | 18°C | 22°C | 27°C |
| October | 7°C | 14°C | 21°C |
| November | 4°C | 9°C | 14°C |
| December | 0°C | 2°C | 5°C |
Lewis and Clark Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Lewis and Clark Lake: Weather Forecast
September 21
September 22
September 23
September 24
September 25
Location & Local Information
Lewis and Clark Lake, a reservoir on the Missouri River along the Nebraska–South Dakota border, experiences a wide seasonal range of surface temperatures. In winter months surface readings commonly sit near freezing up to about 33–45°F (1–7°C). Spring brings a steady rise, roughly 45–65°F (7–18°C) as ambient air warms and inflows moderate. Peak summer surface temperatures are typically in the 68–82°F (20–28°C) range, occasionally reaching the mid-80s (around 29°C) in prolonged heat. As autumn arrives the water cools back to roughly 50–68°F (10–20°C) depending on weather and reservoir levels. Deeper water and areas near dam releases can remain noticeably cooler than surface measurements.
Swimming is generally allowed at Lewis and Clark Lake in designated beach and recreation areas managed by the Corps of Engineers and state parks, and summertime conditions often support recreational bathing and wading. Restrictions and safety considerations apply: boat traffic, currents near the dam and channels, sudden drop-offs, and underwater hazards make some areas unsafe, and occasional water-quality advisories for bacteria or harmful algal blooms can close swimming sites temporarily. Visitors are advised to use marked swim areas, heed posted warnings, and check local advisories before entering the water.