Lima Reservoir — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Lima Reservoir, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Lima Reservoir today is 9.2°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
❌ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 47°F (8°C) to 50°F (10°C). This is still cool water, suitable only for experienced swimmers or those accustomed to cold water. Swimming in such conditions is possible, but not recommended for prolonged periods. Extra caution should be taken during extended exposure, as the cold water can cause heat loss and lead to hypothermia. For added comfort, special clothing can be used. 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 5 | 9.8°C | 9.0°C | |
| OCT 6 | 9.8°C | 9.0°C | |
| OCT 7 | 10.0°C | 9.0°C | |
| OCT 8 | 9.9°C | 9.0°C | |
| OCT 9 | 9.1°C | 9.0°C | |
| OCT 10 | 8.8°C | 9.0°C | |
| OCT 11 | 8.4°C | 9.0°C | |
| OCT 12 | 8.2°C | 9.0°C | |
| OCT 13 | 9.0°C | 9.2°C | |
| OCT 14 | 9.0°C | 9.2°C | |
| OCT 15 | 9.0°C | 9.2°C | |
| OCT 16 | 9.0°C | 9.2°C | |
| OCT 17 | 9.0°C | 9.2°C | |
| OCT 18 | 9.0°C | 9.1°C | |
| OCT 19 | 9.0°C | 9.1°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 | 2°C | 4°C |
| February | 0°C | 3°C | 5°C |
| March | 1°C | 4°C | 6°C |
| April | 3°C | 6°C | 8°C |
| May | 4°C | 9°C | 13°C |
| June | 10°C | 14°C | 18°C |
| July | 13°C | 18°C | 23°C |
| August | 19°C | 23°C | 26°C |
| September | 14°C | 18°C | 21°C |
| October | 4°C | 9°C | 14°C |
| November | 0°C | 5°C | 9°C |
| December | 0°C | 2°C | 5°C |
Lima Reservoir: Water Temperature by Location
Lima Reservoir: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
October 18
Location & Local Information
Lake of Lima Reservoir in Montana experiences a pronounced seasonal cycle in surface water temperature. In winter the reservoir is frequently at or near freezing, with surface temperatures around 32°F (0°C) and intermittent ice cover. During spring as snowmelt and cool air persist, surface readings commonly rise into the mid-30s to around 50°F (2–10°C). By early to mid-summer the shallow, sun-exposed areas warm most, with typical afternoon surface temperatures often reaching about 60–70°F (15–21°C) on warm days; deeper water stays cooler. In fall the lake cools back into the 40s–50s°F (4–10°C) range before refreezing resumes.
Swimming is possible at the reservoir but conditions and safety considerations shape the opportunity. There are no statewide bans specific to small irrigation reservoirs like Lake of Lima, yet local rules, fluctuating water levels from irrigation releases, absence of lifeguards, steep or muddy shorelines, cold temperatures outside mid-summer, and occasional water-quality issues can limit safe swimming. Summer months provide the most comfortable water temperatures, but visitors should check local signage or landowner guidance, be mindful of cold-water shock and underwater hazards, and avoid swimming when ice, high flow operations, or advisory notices are present.