New Melones Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in New Melones Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in New Melones Lake today is 22.6°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
✅ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 68°F (20°C) to 74°F (23°C). The water is warm and pleasant for swimming, and in this range, one can stay in the water for extended periods without the risk of hypothermia. This is the ideal temperature for relaxation, swimming, and water sports. Families with children, as well as outdoor enthusiasts, will enjoy swimming and time spent in the water. For most people, this is the optimal temperature for a comfortable beach experience. 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 | 24.8°C | 19.5°C | |
| SEP 15 | 24.1°C | 19.5°C | |
| SEP 16 | 23.4°C | 19.5°C | |
| SEP 17 | 23.5°C | 19.5°C | |
| SEP 18 | 23.5°C | 19.5°C | |
| SEP 19 | 23.5°C | 19.5°C | |
| SEP 20 | 23.0°C | 19.5°C | |
| SEP 21 | 22.6°C | 19.5°C | |
| SEP 22 | 19.5°C | 22.4°C | |
| SEP 23 | 19.5°C | 22.3°C | |
| SEP 24 | 19.5°C | 22.1°C | |
| SEP 25 | 19.5°C | 22.0°C | |
| SEP 26 | 19.5°C | 21.8°C | |
| SEP 27 | 19.5°C | 21.7°C | |
| SEP 28 | 19.5°C | 21.5°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 | 9°C | 11°C | 14°C |
| February | 9°C | 12°C | 15°C |
| March | 10°C | 15°C | 20°C |
| April | 11°C | 15°C | 19°C |
| May | 12°C | 18°C | 23°C |
| June | 13°C | 18°C | 24°C |
| July | 21°C | 24°C | 28°C |
| August | 19°C | 24°C | 29°C |
| September | 15°C | 20°C | 24°C |
| October | 14°C | 19°C | 23°C |
| November | 10°C | 14°C | 19°C |
| December | 8°C | 11°C | 14°C |
New Melones Lake: Water Temperature by Location
New Melones Lake: Weather Forecast
September 22
September 23
September 24
September 25
Location & Local Information
New Melones Lake is a deep California reservoir whose surface temperatures change markedly with the seasons. In summer, surface water commonly warms to roughly 65–78°F (18–26°C) on warm afternoons, while spring and fall surface temperatures more typically sit between about 50–65°F (10–18°C). Because the lake is deep, colder water persists below the surface year‑round; temperatures at depth can remain in the 40s–50s°F (4–12°C) even when the surface is comparatively mild. Rapid stratification and thermoclines mean swimmers can encounter much colder water just a few feet down, and seasonal and daily variations are common depending on inflow, wind and reservoir level.
Swimming is generally allowed at New Melones as part of its recreational uses, but it is typically at your own risk and subject to posted regulations at boat ramps and developed recreation sites. There are few if any permanent lifeguards, and authorities warn about hazards such as cold‑water shock, sudden drop‑offs, submerged trees and boat traffic. For safer swimming choose sheltered, shallow areas, wear a flotation aid if uncertain, enter gradually to acclimate to cool temperatures, and observe posted rules and seasonal advisories that can affect access and water safety.