Merritt Reservoir — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Merritt Reservoir, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Merritt Reservoir today is 13.5°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 54°F (12°C) to 60°F (15°C). The water is significantly warmer, and swimming becomes possible for most people. However, caution may still be required for prolonged stays in the water, as extended exposure can cause discomfort. This is a suitable temperature range for short swims and for those accustomed to cooler water. For more comfortable swimming, it is recommended to use proper gear. 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 | 15.7°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 6 | 14.5°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 7 | 14.2°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 8 | 14.4°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 9 | 14.2°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 10 | 13.9°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 11 | 13.4°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 12 | 13.6°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 13 | 15.0°C | 13.6°C | |
| OCT 14 | 15.0°C | 13.7°C | |
| OCT 15 | 15.0°C | 13.7°C | |
| OCT 16 | 15.0°C | 13.8°C | |
| OCT 17 | 15.0°C | 13.9°C | |
| OCT 18 | 15.0°C | 14.0°C | |
| OCT 19 | 15.0°C | 14.0°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 | 5°C | 10°C |
| April | 5°C | 10°C | 15°C |
| May | 9°C | 15°C | 22°C |
| June | 17°C | 20°C | 24°C |
| July | 20°C | 24°C | 28°C |
| August | 22°C | 25°C | 28°C |
| September | 16°C | 20°C | 24°C |
| October | 10°C | 15°C | 20°C |
| November | 3°C | 7°C | 11°C |
| December | 0°C | 3°C | 6°C |
Merritt Reservoir: Water Temperature by Location
Merritt Reservoir: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
October 18
Location & Local Information
Merritt Reservoir in north-central Nebraska experiences a wide range of water temperatures through the year. In spring the surface water often runs cool, roughly 40–65°F (4–18°C) as snowmelt and spring rains mix with still-cold basins. By summer, especially on warm, calm days, surface temperatures commonly rise into the 70–85°F range (21–29°C), though deeper or wind-exposed areas remain cooler. In fall the reservoir cools again to roughly 50–70°F (10–21°C) as air temperatures drop, and in winter the water approaches freezing, typically 32–40°F (0–4°C) with ice forming in colder spells. Actual temperatures vary with depth, wind, inflows and season, so local conditions can differ from these general ranges.
Swimming is generally permitted at Merritt Reservoir with opportunities best in late spring and summer when surface temperatures are comfortable. There are no guarantees of lifeguard coverage, and swimmers should pay attention to boat traffic, sudden drop-offs, submerged structure and changing weather. Occasionally health or algae advisories may restrict contact with the water, and in cold months the reservoir is not safe for swimming due to low temperatures and ice. Visitors are advised to check current conditions at the recreation area and use caution when entering the water.