Modesto Reservoir — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Modesto Reservoir, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Modesto Reservoir today is 16.3°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| OCT 26 | 17.0°C | 19.4°C | |
| OCT 27 | 18.9°C | 19.4°C | |
| OCT 28 | 17.9°C | 19.4°C | |
| OCT 29 | 17.5°C | 19.4°C | |
| OCT 30 | 17.7°C | 19.4°C | |
| OCT 31 | 17.9°C | 19.4°C | |
| NOV 1 | 17.4°C | 16.2°C | |
| NOV 2 | 16.3°C | 16.2°C | |
| NOV 3 | 16.2°C | 16.3°C | |
| NOV 4 | 16.2°C | 16.3°C | |
| NOV 5 | 16.2°C | 16.3°C | |
| NOV 6 | 16.2°C | 16.3°C | |
| NOV 7 | 16.2°C | 16.3°C | |
| NOV 8 | 16.2°C | 16.3°C | |
| NOV 9 | 16.2°C | 16.3°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 | 8°C | 10°C | 13°C |
| February | 6°C | 10°C | 15°C |
| March | 10°C | 15°C | 20°C |
| April | 14°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| May | 15°C | 20°C | 24°C |
| June | 19°C | 24°C | 29°C |
| July | 21°C | 25°C | 29°C |
| August | 20°C | 25°C | 30°C |
| September | 18°C | 22°C | 26°C |
| October | 17°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| November | 12°C | 16°C | 20°C |
| December | 9°C | 12°C | 15°C |
Modesto Reservoir: Water Temperature by Location
Modesto Reservoir: Weather Forecast
November 3
November 4
November 5
November 6
November 7
Location & Local Information
Modesto Reservoir, located in California’s Central Valley, experiences a wide seasonal swing in surface water temperature. In winter months the surface can drop into the mid-40s to mid-50s °F (7–13 °C), rising through spring to around the upper 50s to low 70s °F (15–22 °C). By summer the reservoir often warms to a comfortable range in the low 70s to mid-80s °F (21–29 °C) on sunny afternoons, while fall temperatures typically move back toward the 60s and low 70s °F (15–22 °C). Deeper water remains cooler year-round, and sudden changes in temperature near inflows or shaded coves are common, so swimmers should be aware of cold-water shock and thermoclines in shoulder seasons.
Swimming is generally permitted at many California irrigation and recreational reservoirs, including Modesto Reservoir, but it is controlled by local rules and safety considerations. Access may be limited to designated swim areas or closed temporarily because of water-quality advisories, irrigation operations, submerged hazards, boat traffic, or the absence of lifeguards. Visitors should follow posted signage and local agency guidance before entering the water to ensure safety and compliance with any seasonal or site-specific restrictions.