Noxon Reservoir — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Noxon Reservoir, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Noxon Reservoir today is 15.3°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| SEP 14 | 17.2°C | 18.8°C | |
| SEP 15 | 17.4°C | 18.8°C | |
| SEP 16 | 15.9°C | 18.8°C | |
| SEP 17 | 15.9°C | 18.8°C | |
| SEP 18 | 15.6°C | 18.8°C | |
| SEP 19 | 16.3°C | 18.8°C | |
| SEP 20 | 15.2°C | 18.8°C | |
| SEP 21 | 15.3°C | 18.8°C | |
| SEP 22 | 18.8°C | 15.5°C | |
| SEP 23 | 18.8°C | 15.7°C | |
| SEP 24 | 18.8°C | 15.8°C | |
| SEP 25 | 18.8°C | 16.0°C | |
| SEP 26 | 18.8°C | 16.2°C | |
| SEP 27 | 18.8°C | 16.4°C | |
| SEP 28 | 18.8°C | 16.5°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 | 0°C | 2°C | 5°C |
| February | 0°C | 3°C | 5°C |
| March | 1°C | 3°C | 6°C |
| April | 1°C | 5°C | 10°C |
| May | 3°C | 10°C | 17°C |
| June | 11°C | 15°C | 19°C |
| July | 16°C | 21°C | 26°C |
| August | 19°C | 22°C | 26°C |
| September | 15°C | 19°C | 23°C |
| October | 10°C | 14°C | 17°C |
| November | 4°C | 7°C | 10°C |
| December | 0°C | 2°C | 5°C |
Noxon Reservoir: Water Temperature by Location
Noxon Reservoir: Weather Forecast
September 22
September 23
September 24
September 25
Location & Local Information
Noxon Reservoir, formed along the Clark Fork River in western Montana, experiences marked seasonal variation in surface water temperatures. In spring (April–May) surface readings commonly sit between about 40–55°F (4–13°C) as snowmelt cools inflows. Summer months (June–August) are when the reservoir is warmest, with surface temperatures often rising into the 60–75°F range (16–24°C) on sunny days, though deeper water remains much colder. During fall (September–October) temperatures typically fall back to roughly 45–60°F (7–16°C) as air and inflow conditions cool. In winter the reservoir can approach freezing where ice forms, with near-surface water around 32–39°F (0–4°C) under ice cover; stratification and cold, deep layers persist year-round in many places.
Swimming in Noxon Reservoir is generally permitted as part of public recreational use, but it carries important caveats. Cold water, sudden temperature changes with depth, steep drop-offs, submerged structures, strong currents near dam or inflow/outflow areas, and boat traffic create hazards that increase risk of cold shock or drowning. There are often no lifeguards at informal swim spots, so swimmers are advised to check local rules and signage, wear flotation when appropriate, avoid restricted zones near the dam, and be mindful of changing weather and water conditions.