McPhee Reservoir — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in McPhee Reservoir, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in McPhee Reservoir today is 17.5°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 60°F (15°C) to 65°F (18°C). The water is comfortable for most people, making it an ideal range for water sports enthusiasts. The temperature does not cause significant discomfort, and swimming will be pleasant for the majority. However, it's important to remember that prolonged exposure to the water can still lead to cooling, so it's essential to monitor the time spent in the water, especially for children or elderly people. 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 15 | 18.7°C | 19.6°C | |
| SEP 16 | 18.2°C | 19.6°C | |
| SEP 17 | 18.3°C | 19.6°C | |
| SEP 18 | 18.3°C | 19.6°C | |
| SEP 19 | 18.0°C | 19.6°C | |
| SEP 20 | 17.9°C | 19.6°C | |
| SEP 21 | 17.6°C | 19.6°C | |
| SEP 22 | 17.6°C | 19.6°C | |
| SEP 23 | 19.6°C | 17.6°C | |
| SEP 24 | 19.6°C | 17.7°C | |
| SEP 25 | 19.6°C | 17.8°C | |
| SEP 26 | 19.6°C | 17.9°C | |
| SEP 27 | 19.6°C | 18.0°C | |
| SEP 28 | 19.6°C | 18.1°C | |
| SEP 29 | 19.6°C | 18.2°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 | 2°C | 5°C |
| March | 0°C | 5°C | 10°C |
| April | 5°C | 8°C | 12°C |
| May | 7°C | 11°C | 16°C |
| June | 13°C | 16°C | 19°C |
| July | 16°C | 22°C | 28°C |
| August | 22°C | 24°C | 27°C |
| September | 16°C | 20°C | 24°C |
| October | 12°C | 15°C | 18°C |
| November | 4°C | 9°C | 14°C |
| December | 1°C | 4°C | 6°C |
McPhee Reservoir: Water Temperature by Location
McPhee Reservoir: Weather Forecast
September 23
September 24
September 25
September 26
September 27
Location & Local Information
McPhee Reservoir, high on the Colorado Plateau, typically has cool water temperatures influenced by elevation, seasonal snowmelt and reservoir depth. Surface temperatures in spring are commonly in the range of about 45–60°F (7–16°C) as snowmelt keeps the lake chilly. In summer, surface readings can warm to roughly 60–75°F (16–24°C) on the warmest days, though deeper water remains colder. By fall the surface cools back toward roughly 45–60°F (7–16°C), and in winter the reservoir can approach freezing with localized ice in sheltered areas and water near 32–39°F (0–4°C) under ice or near withdraw points. These values vary with air temperature, inflows and the lake’s stratification, so cold pockets and rapid temperature changes are common.
Swimming is generally possible at McPhee—recreation areas are used for swimming and wading—but it is not lifeguarded and conditions can be hazardous. Cold water shock and hypothermia are real risks because even warm summer surface temperatures are cooler than many low-elevation lakes, and deeper layers stay much colder. Boat traffic, submerged rocks, sudden drop‑offs and flow from dam releases can make swimming unsafe in places. Visitors should exercise caution, wear flotation if appropriate, check local signage and weather, and assume variable and often colder-than-expected water temperatures.