Oak Ridge Reservoir — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Oak Ridge Reservoir, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Oak Ridge Reservoir today is 15.9°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 5 | 18.1°C | 16.0°C | |
| OCT 6 | 17.7°C | 16.0°C | |
| OCT 7 | 17.2°C | 16.0°C | |
| OCT 8 | 16.9°C | 16.0°C | |
| OCT 9 | 16.0°C | 16.0°C | |
| OCT 10 | 16.7°C | 16.0°C | |
| OCT 11 | 16.6°C | 16.0°C | |
| OCT 12 | 16.6°C | 16.0°C | |
| OCT 13 | 16.0°C | 15.9°C | |
| OCT 14 | 16.0°C | 15.9°C | |
| OCT 15 | 16.0°C | 15.9°C | |
| OCT 16 | 16.0°C | 15.9°C | |
| OCT 17 | 16.0°C | 15.9°C | |
| OCT 18 | 16.0°C | 15.9°C | |
| OCT 19 | 16.0°C | 15.9°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 | 6°C |
| February | 0°C | 1°C | 4°C |
| March | 0°C | 4°C | 8°C |
| April | 4°C | 10°C | 16°C |
| May | 11°C | 16°C | 21°C |
| June | 17°C | 20°C | 24°C |
| July | 20°C | 25°C | 30°C |
| August | 22°C | 26°C | 29°C |
| September | 19°C | 23°C | 27°C |
| October | 12°C | 16°C | 20°C |
| November | 7°C | 10°C | 12°C |
| December | 1°C | 5°C | 8°C |
Oak Ridge Reservoir: Water Temperature by Location
Oak Ridge Reservoir: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
October 18
Location & Local Information
Surface temperatures at Oak Ridge Reservoir vary through the year. In spring the surface typically warms from roughly 45–60°F (7–16°C) as air temperatures rise and stratification begins. By early summer many lakes in northern New Jersey reach 60–70°F (16–21°C), with midsummer surface temperatures commonly in the 70–80°F range (21–27°C) and occasional short spikes into the mid‑80s°F (about 29°C) during heat waves. In autumn the surface cools back into the 50–65°F band (10–18°C) as the water mixes, and in winter the reservoir often drops to near freezing at the surface, around 32–40°F (0–4°C), with deeper water remaining colder and less variable.
Swimming at Oak Ridge Reservoir is generally not permitted, a restriction typically intended to protect water quality and public safety. Reservoirs that serve municipal supply or are managed for habitat and flood control commonly ban open swimming to reduce contamination, limit risk from cold shock, hidden currents and submerged hazards, and because lifeguards are not provided. Shoreline walking, fishing or boating may be allowed under local rules, but anyone considering entering the water should consult current notices and signage from the managing agency to confirm permitted activities and safety conditions.