Onondaga Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Onondaga Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Onondaga Lake today is 19.1°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 65°F (18°C) to 68°F (20°C). This is already quite warm water, which is ideal for most people. Swimming becomes comfortable, and prolonged stays in the water do not cause discomfort. This temperature is perfect for family trips and for those who prefer warmer water. It is also comfortable for water sports such as surfing or swimming. 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 | 19.3°C | 19.6°C | |
| SEP 15 | 19.6°C | 19.6°C | |
| SEP 16 | 19.8°C | 19.6°C | |
| SEP 17 | 18.4°C | 19.6°C | |
| SEP 18 | 19.1°C | 19.6°C | |
| SEP 19 | 19.1°C | 19.6°C | |
| SEP 20 | 19.1°C | 19.6°C | |
| SEP 21 | 19.1°C | 19.6°C | |
| SEP 22 | 19.6°C | 19.1°C | |
| SEP 23 | 19.6°C | 19.2°C | |
| SEP 24 | 19.6°C | 19.2°C | |
| SEP 25 | 19.6°C | 19.2°C | |
| SEP 26 | 19.6°C | 19.2°C | |
| SEP 27 | 19.6°C | 19.3°C | |
| SEP 28 | 19.6°C | 19.3°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 | 4°C |
| February | 0°C | 2°C | 5°C |
| March | 1°C | 3°C | 6°C |
| April | 1°C | 7°C | 12°C |
| May | 6°C | 13°C | 19°C |
| June | 15°C | 19°C | 23°C |
| July | 20°C | 25°C | 29°C |
| August | 20°C | 23°C | 27°C |
| September | 17°C | 20°C | 23°C |
| October | 13°C | 16°C | 18°C |
| November | 5°C | 10°C | 14°C |
| December | 1°C | 4°C | 7°C |
Onondaga Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Onondaga Lake: Weather Forecast
September 21
September 22
September 23
September 24
September 25
Location & Local Information
Onondaga Lake in central New York experiences a marked seasonal cycle in water temperature. In winter the surface commonly approaches freezing, roughly 32–39°F (0–4°C), often forming partial ice cover. Spring brings a steady warm-up, with surface temperatures generally climbing from about 38–55°F (3–13°C) as snowmelt and runoff influence the lake. By summer the upper water column can reach roughly 68–78°F (20–26°C) on warm days, though deeper water remains considerably cooler. Autumn sees a gradual cooling, with typical surface readings of about 45–60°F (7–16°C) before the lake re-enters winter stratification. Temperature varies by depth, weather, and inflow conditions, so the numbers above represent approximate surface ranges rather than precise measurements at all locations or times.
Swimming at Onondaga Lake is not broadly promoted and there are no widely used public swimming beaches. The lake has a long history of industrial and sewage contamination, and although cleanup efforts have improved conditions, authorities and local organizations often caution against casual swimming because of lingering pollutants, occasional bacterial spikes and algal blooms. Recreational uses such as boating, fishing from shore, and trails are common, and organized or permitted water events may take place under specific monitoring and safety measures; anyone considering entering the water should check current local advisories and follow official guidance.