Madison County Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Madison County Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Madison County Lake today is 22.2°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| OCT 5 | 24.0°C | 23.0°C | |
| OCT 6 | 23.9°C | 23.0°C | |
| OCT 7 | 24.2°C | 23.0°C | |
| OCT 8 | 23.3°C | 23.0°C | |
| OCT 9 | 23.0°C | 23.0°C | |
| OCT 10 | 22.9°C | 23.0°C | |
| OCT 11 | 23.0°C | 23.0°C | |
| OCT 12 | 22.7°C | 23.0°C | |
| OCT 13 | 23.0°C | 22.2°C | |
| OCT 14 | 23.0°C | 22.3°C | |
| OCT 15 | 23.0°C | 22.3°C | |
| OCT 16 | 23.0°C | 22.4°C | |
| OCT 17 | 23.0°C | 22.4°C | |
| OCT 18 | 23.0°C | 22.4°C | |
| OCT 19 | 23.0°C | 22.5°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 | 6°C | 11°C | 14°C |
| February | 5°C | 11°C | 16°C |
| March | 8°C | 14°C | 19°C |
| April | 11°C | 17°C | 22°C |
| May | 18°C | 22°C | 26°C |
| June | 20°C | 26°C | 32°C |
| July | 23°C | 28°C | 32°C |
| August | 23°C | 28°C | 32°C |
| September | 22°C | 26°C | 30°C |
| October | 18°C | 23°C | 28°C |
| November | 9°C | 14°C | 18°C |
| December | 6°C | 9°C | 12°C |
Madison County Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Madison County Lake: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
October 18
Location & Local Information
Madison County Lake is a small, 105-acre reservoir in Gurley, Alabama, primarily managed by the state's Department of Conservation and Natural Resources as a Public Fishing Lake (PFL). Due to its location in northern Alabama, the lake's water temperature follows the regional climate pattern. In the peak summer months, surface temperatures become quite warm, typically rising to and potentially exceeding 27∘C (80∘F), which aligns with comfortable swimming conditions. Conversely, during the winter months, the water cools significantly, with temperatures likely dropping into the range of 4∘C to 11∘C (40∘F to 52∘F), making it too cold for casual recreation.
Swimming is generally not permitted at Madison County Lake. The primary purpose of PFLs in Alabama is to provide high-quality public fishing opportunities, which is reflected in the available amenities such as a boat ramp, fishing pier, and concession stand. The official documentation for the lake emphasizes fishing, listing species like largemouth bass and crappie, and mentions special permits for trout fishing. The lack of any mention of a swimming area, beach, or aquatic facilities strongly implies a restriction on swimming to maintain water quality and safety for anglers and other users, thus focusing strictly on its designation as a state public fishing lake.