Okatibbee Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Okatibbee Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Okatibbee Lake today is 16.5°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 | 17.3°C | 21.1°C | |
| OCT 6 | 17.2°C | 21.1°C | |
| OCT 7 | 19.5°C | 21.1°C | |
| OCT 8 | 18.4°C | 21.1°C | |
| OCT 9 | 17.3°C | 21.1°C | |
| OCT 10 | 16.7°C | 21.1°C | |
| OCT 11 | 18.7°C | 21.1°C | |
| OCT 12 | 17.2°C | 21.1°C | |
| OCT 13 | 21.1°C | 16.7°C | |
| OCT 14 | 21.1°C | 17.0°C | |
| OCT 15 | 21.1°C | 17.2°C | |
| OCT 16 | 21.1°C | 17.4°C | |
| OCT 17 | 21.1°C | 17.7°C | |
| OCT 18 | 21.1°C | 17.9°C | |
| OCT 19 | 21.1°C | 18.1°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 | 5°C | 12°C | 18°C |
| February | 5°C | 11°C | 17°C |
| March | 11°C | 16°C | 21°C |
| April | 14°C | 19°C | 24°C |
| May | 19°C | 24°C | 29°C |
| June | 19°C | 26°C | 33°C |
| July | 23°C | 26°C | 30°C |
| August | 24°C | 27°C | 30°C |
| September | 20°C | 25°C | 31°C |
| October | 19°C | 21°C | 24°C |
| November | 14°C | 18°C | 22°C |
| December | 8°C | 13°C | 17°C |
Okatibbee Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Okatibbee Lake: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
October 18
Location & Local Information
Okatibbee Lake, a Corps-managed reservoir in eastern Mississippi, experiences the full range of seasonal temperature change typical of the region. Surface water in winter often cools into the low 40s to mid 50s °F (about 4–13 °C), while spring sees a steady rise into the mid-50s to low 70s °F (13–22 °C). In summer the lake commonly reaches its warmest conditions, with surface temperatures frequently in the mid-70s to upper 80s °F (24–31 °C) on hot spells. Autumn brings a gradual cooling back toward spring values. Actual temperatures can vary with recent weather, depth, inflow from tributaries, and dam operations; deeper or shaded areas remain cooler, while shallow coves warm fastest.
Swimming at Okatibbee Lake is generally possible but comes with caveats: there are no staffed lifeguards on most Corps recreation sites, and designated swim beaches may be limited or subject to seasonal or temporary closure for safety, maintenance, or water-quality reasons. Visitors are usually allowed to swim at their own risk where posted, but boat traffic, submerged hazards, fluctuating water levels, and occasional restrictions related to dam operations or algal blooms make exercising caution important. For safe enjoyment, plan swims during warmer months when surface temperatures are comfortable (roughly above 70 °F / 21 °C) and follow on-site signage and local guidance.