Little River Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Little River Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Little River Lake today is 22.6°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
✅ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 68°F (20°C) to 74°F (23°C). The water is warm and pleasant for swimming, and in this range, one can stay in the water for extended periods without the risk of hypothermia. This is the ideal temperature for relaxation, swimming, and water sports. Families with children, as well as outdoor enthusiasts, will enjoy swimming and time spent in the water. For most people, this is the optimal temperature for a comfortable beach experience. 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 16 | 23.0°C | 23.9°C | |
| SEP 17 | 23.1°C | 23.9°C | |
| SEP 18 | 22.5°C | 23.9°C | |
| SEP 19 | 21.9°C | 23.9°C | |
| SEP 20 | 21.4°C | 23.9°C | |
| SEP 21 | 22.1°C | 23.9°C | |
| SEP 22 | 22.6°C | 23.9°C | |
| SEP 23 | 22.6°C | 23.9°C | |
| SEP 24 | 23.9°C | 22.7°C | |
| SEP 25 | 23.9°C | 22.7°C | |
| SEP 26 | 23.9°C | 22.8°C | |
| SEP 27 | 23.9°C | 22.9°C | |
| SEP 28 | 23.9°C | 22.9°C | |
| SEP 29 | 23.9°C | 23.0°C | |
| SEP 30 | 23.9°C | 23.1°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 | 1°C | 4°C |
| February | 0°C | 1°C | 4°C |
| March | 0°C | 7°C | 15°C |
| April | 8°C | 13°C | 18°C |
| May | 13°C | 18°C | 23°C |
| June | 19°C | 22°C | 25°C |
| July | 25°C | 30°C | 35°C |
| August | 24°C | 27°C | 30°C |
| September | 21°C | 24°C | 26°C |
| October | 13°C | 18°C | 22°C |
| November | 5°C | 11°C | 15°C |
| December | 1°C | 3°C | 6°C |
Little River Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Little River Lake: Weather Forecast
September 24
September 25
September 26
September 27
Location & Local Information
Little River Lake in Iowa follows the seasonal pattern typical of small Midwestern reservoirs. During winter months (December–February) surface water commonly sits near freezing, roughly 32–40°F (0–4°C), and ice cover is frequent. In spring (March–May) temperatures climb to about 40–60°F (4–16°C) as runoff and warming air increase surface warmth. Peak summer (June–August) surface temperatures are generally in the 70–80°F range (21–27°C), and on hot, calm days can briefly approach the low 80s°F (~27–28°C). In autumn (September–November) waters cool again, often settling between 50–65°F (10–18°C) before declining toward winter freeze. Deeper water stays colder year-round while shallow bays warm and cool more quickly.
Swimming is typically permitted in designated areas of public lakes in Iowa when local authorities or park managers open beaches; however, allowances vary by site and season. Whether swimming is advisable depends on posted signage, water-quality testing, and conditions: managers may close swimming for safety reasons such as high bacteria levels, harmful algal blooms (cyanobacteria), strong currents, low visibility, submerged hazards, or lack of lifeguards. Visitors should check local park rules and advisories before entering the water and exercise caution when temperatures are cold or when water quality warnings are in effect.