Okanagan Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Okanagan Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Okanagan Lake today is 12.2°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| OCT 5 | 14.1°C | 11.0°C | |
| OCT 6 | 13.9°C | 11.0°C | |
| OCT 7 | 13.4°C | 11.0°C | |
| OCT 8 | 13.7°C | 11.0°C | |
| OCT 9 | 13.4°C | 11.0°C | |
| OCT 10 | 13.1°C | 11.0°C | |
| OCT 11 | 13.7°C | 11.0°C | |
| OCT 12 | 13.2°C | 11.0°C | |
| OCT 13 | 11.0°C | 12.1°C | |
| OCT 14 | 11.0°C | 12.1°C | |
| OCT 15 | 11.0°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 16 | 11.0°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 17 | 11.0°C | 11.9°C | |
| OCT 18 | 11.0°C | 11.8°C | |
| OCT 19 | 11.0°C | 11.8°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 | 4°C | 8°C |
| February | 0°C | 4°C | 7°C |
| March | 0°C | 5°C | 9°C |
| April | 1°C | 6°C | 12°C |
| May | 0°C | 9°C | 19°C |
| June | 8°C | 14°C | 21°C |
| July | 14°C | 20°C | 27°C |
| August | 16°C | 21°C | 27°C |
| September | 13°C | 17°C | 21°C |
| October | 6°C | 11°C | 16°C |
| November | 4°C | 8°C | 11°C |
| December | 2°C | 6°C | 9°C |
Okanagan Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Okanagan Lake: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
Location & Local Information
Okanagan Lake is actually located in British Columbia, Canada, not Washington, USA. It is a large, deep inland lake whose surface temperatures vary considerably through the year. Typical seasonal surface ranges are about 34–41°F (1–5°C) in winter when water near the surface is very cold and ice can form in sheltered bays; spring temperatures rise to roughly 41–57°F (5–14°C); summer brings the warmest water, commonly 61–79°F (16–26°C) in July and August with shallow, sheltered areas occasionally reaching the upper end; and fall temperatures generally decline to around 45–59°F (7–15°C) before winter sets in. Deeper water remains substantially colder year‑round.
Swimming is generally allowed and popular at municipal beaches and waterfront parks around the lake during the warmer months, but swimmers should be mindful of hazards. Water can be deceptively cold outside the peak summer period and may lead to cold‑water shock or rapid heat loss; boat traffic, wind-driven waves and occasional cyanobacterial (blue‑green algae) advisories at some locations also affect safety and suitability. Municipalities post beach conditions and advisories, and visitors are advised to use designated swimming areas, heed posted warnings, and exercise caution when entering the lake.