Mono Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Mono Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Mono Lake today is 6.6°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
❌ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 41°F (5°C) to 47°F (8°C). This water temperature is still quite low, and swimming in such conditions may only be comfortable for hardened individuals. It is recommended to limit the time spent in the water to avoid hypothermia. For those not accustomed to cold water, it is better to refrain from swimming. However, if you decide to enter the water, it is advisable to wear a warm wetsuit for protection against the cold. 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| NOV 6 | 8.0°C | 10.5°C | |
| NOV 7 | 8.0°C | 10.5°C | |
| NOV 8 | 7.7°C | 10.5°C | |
| NOV 9 | 7.0°C | 10.5°C | |
| NOV 10 | 7.6°C | 10.5°C | |
| NOV 11 | 6.6°C | 10.5°C | |
| NOV 12 | 7.1°C | 10.5°C | |
| NOV 13 | 6.8°C | 10.5°C | |
| NOV 14 | 10.5°C | 6.8°C | |
| NOV 15 | 10.5°C | 7.0°C | |
| NOV 16 | 10.5°C | 7.2°C | |
| NOV 17 | 10.5°C | 7.4°C | |
| NOV 18 | 10.5°C | 7.6°C | |
| NOV 19 | 10.5°C | 7.8°C | |
| NOV 20 | 10.5°C | 8.0°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 | 3°C | 7°C |
| February | 0°C | 4°C | 8°C |
| March | 1°C | 6°C | 12°C |
| April | 4°C | 8°C | 12°C |
| May | 10°C | 13°C | 17°C |
| June | 11°C | 16°C | 21°C |
| July | 17°C | 21°C | 26°C |
| August | 19°C | 23°C | 27°C |
| September | 17°C | 21°C | 24°C |
| October | 11°C | 14°C | 17°C |
| November | 8°C | 11°C | 13°C |
| December | 3°C | 6°C | 9°C |
Mono Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Mono Lake: Weather Forecast
November 14
November 15
November 16
November 17
November 18
November 19
Location & Local Information
Mono Lake is a hypersaline, alkaline lake east of the Sierra Nevada, and its water temperatures are generally cooler than lower‑elevation recreational lakes. Seasonal surface temperatures typically range from about 40–55 °F (4–13 °C) in spring, rise to roughly 55–70 °F (13–21 °C) during the warmest summer months, decline to roughly 45–60 °F (7–16 °C) in autumn, and approach near‑freezing conditions of about 32–40 °F (0–4 °C) in winter. Because Mono Lake is relatively shallow along much of its shoreline, surface temperatures can warm quickly on calm summer days but remain brisk compared with many inland swimming spots.
Swimming in Mono Lake is permitted, but it is uncommon and comes with caveats. The high salinity and alkalinity make the water very buoyant and can leave a slick feeling on skin; exposure can irritate cuts or eyes. There are no lifeguards, and rocky, tufa‑scaped shores can complicate entry and exit. Many visitors choose to wade or float briefly rather than undertake extended swims. From a safety and comfort perspective, seasonal cool temperatures and chemical conditions are the main reasons people limit swimming there, even though casual wading and floating are allowed.