O'Shaughnessy Reservoir — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in O'Shaughnessy Reservoir, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in O'Shaughnessy Reservoir today is 17.5°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 6 | 19.1°C | 20.0°C | |
| OCT 7 | 19.1°C | 20.0°C | |
| OCT 8 | 18.3°C | 20.0°C | |
| OCT 9 | 18.5°C | 20.0°C | |
| OCT 10 | 18.2°C | 20.0°C | |
| OCT 11 | 17.5°C | 20.0°C | |
| OCT 12 | 17.8°C | 20.0°C | |
| OCT 14 | 20.0°C | 17.6°C | |
| OCT 15 | 20.0°C | 17.8°C | |
| OCT 16 | 20.0°C | 17.9°C | |
| OCT 17 | 20.0°C | 18.0°C | |
| OCT 18 | 20.0°C | 18.1°C | |
| OCT 19 | 20.0°C | 18.3°C | |
| OCT 20 | 20.0°C | 18.4°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 | 5°C |
| February | 0°C | 4°C | 6°C |
| March | 2°C | 6°C | 11°C |
| April | 4°C | 11°C | 18°C |
| May | 13°C | 17°C | 22°C |
| June | 18°C | 22°C | 25°C |
| July | 21°C | 25°C | 29°C |
| August | 22°C | 26°C | 29°C |
| September | 21°C | 26°C | 30°C |
| October | 15°C | 20°C | 25°C |
| November | 5°C | 11°C | 15°C |
| December | 2°C | 6°C | 10°C |
O'Shaughnessy Reservoir: Water Temperature by Location
O'Shaughnessy Reservoir: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
October 18
Location & Local Information
O'Shaughnessy Reservoir, one of the water-supply impoundments on the Scioto River near Columbus, typically shows pronounced seasonal variation in surface temperature. In winter the surface often sits close to freezing, roughly 32–40°F (0–4°C). Spring warming moves surface values into the mid‑40s to low‑60s Fahrenheit (about 7–16°C) as the lake mixes, while summer surface temperatures commonly reach the low 70s to high 70s°F (around 21–26°C) on warm, sunny days. By autumn the surface cools again, often ranging from about 50–65°F (10–18°C). Like many reservoirs, O'Shaughnessy stratifies in summer so deeper water remains substantially cooler than the surface, and sudden drops in temperature can occur below the thermocline.
Swimming in O'Shaughnessy Reservoir is generally not permitted. As a municipal drinking-water reservoir, management restricts direct contact with the water both to protect water quality and to reduce public-safety risks; signs and local regulations reflect those limits. In addition to formal prohibitions, cold subsurface layers and boat traffic can create hazardous conditions even when surface temperatures feel inviting, and winter ice is not a safe or sanctioned swimming environment. Recreational activities in adjacent park areas are available, but anyone considering water contact should check local rules and advisories before entering.