Moosehead Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Moosehead Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Moosehead Lake today is 15°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| SEP 14 | 16.5°C | 19.5°C | |
| SEP 15 | 15.4°C | 19.5°C | |
| SEP 16 | 15.9°C | 19.5°C | |
| SEP 17 | 15.2°C | 19.5°C | |
| SEP 18 | 16.1°C | 19.5°C | |
| SEP 19 | 16.1°C | 19.5°C | |
| SEP 20 | 15.6°C | 19.5°C | |
| SEP 21 | 15.0°C | 19.5°C | |
| SEP 22 | 19.5°C | 15.2°C | |
| SEP 23 | 19.5°C | 15.5°C | |
| SEP 24 | 19.5°C | 15.7°C | |
| SEP 25 | 19.5°C | 15.9°C | |
| SEP 26 | 19.5°C | 16.1°C | |
| SEP 27 | 19.5°C | 16.4°C | |
| SEP 28 | 19.5°C | 16.6°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 | 2°C | 5°C |
| February | 0°C | 2°C | 4°C |
| March | 0°C | 1°C | 4°C |
| April | 0°C | 3°C | 5°C |
| May | 3°C | 10°C | 16°C |
| June | 9°C | 14°C | 17°C |
| July | 16°C | 22°C | 27°C |
| August | 15°C | 20°C | 25°C |
| September | 17°C | 20°C | 22°C |
| October | 8°C | 12°C | 15°C |
| November | 0°C | 6°C | 11°C |
| December | 0°C | 3°C | 6°C |
Moosehead Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Moosehead Lake: Weather Forecast
September 22
September 23
September 24
September 25
Location & Local Information
Moosehead Lake, the largest lake in Maine, generally stays cool through much of the year because of its size, depth and northern location. Surface water in summer typically ranges from about 60–70°F (15–21°C), with shallow, sheltered bays occasionally warming into the low to mid‑70s °F (around 23–25°C) on hot afternoons. In spring the lake is cold as it stratifies and warms, often running roughly 33–50°F (1–10°C). By fall surface temperatures fall again into the 40–55°F range (4–13°C). Deeper layers remain substantially colder year‑round, frequently below 40°F (4°C). In winter the lake develops ice and the water near the surface is at or near freezing (about 32°F/0°C), making open‑water conditions uncommon.
Swimming is permitted and commonly practiced in summer at public access areas, camps and private shorelines, but conditions merit caution. Even in warm months the water can feel chilly and sudden immersion or extended exposure raises the risk of cold‑water incapacitation or hypothermia, and deeper sections cool rapidly. Ice cover in winter prevents normal swimming and presents significant hazard. Swimmers are advised to choose supervised or well‑marked beaches, consider wetsuits for longer swims, be mindful of weather and boat traffic, and avoid remote, unsupervised areas.