Pactola Reservoir — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Pactola Reservoir, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Pactola Reservoir today is 13.3°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 | 14.7°C | 13.5°C | |
| OCT 6 | 13.7°C | 13.5°C | |
| OCT 7 | 13.6°C | 13.5°C | |
| OCT 8 | 13.9°C | 13.5°C | |
| OCT 9 | 13.7°C | 13.5°C | |
| OCT 10 | 13.4°C | 13.5°C | |
| OCT 11 | 12.7°C | 13.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 13.9°C | 13.5°C | |
| OCT 13 | 13.5°C | 13.3°C | |
| OCT 14 | 13.5°C | 13.3°C | |
| OCT 15 | 13.5°C | 13.3°C | |
| OCT 16 | 13.5°C | 13.3°C | |
| OCT 17 | 13.5°C | 13.4°C | |
| OCT 18 | 13.5°C | 13.4°C | |
| OCT 19 | 13.5°C | 13.4°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 | 1°C | 4°C |
| February | 0°C | 1°C | 4°C |
| March | 0°C | 3°C | 7°C |
| April | 4°C | 8°C | 11°C |
| May | 8°C | 14°C | 20°C |
| June | 15°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| July | 18°C | 23°C | 29°C |
| August | 21°C | 25°C | 28°C |
| September | 16°C | 20°C | 24°C |
| October | 9°C | 14°C | 18°C |
| November | 3°C | 7°C | 10°C |
| December | 0°C | 2°C | 5°C |
Pactola Reservoir: Water Temperature by Location
Pactola Reservoir: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
October 18
Location & Local Information
Pactola Reservoir, located in the Black Hills of South Dakota, tends to have cool water year-round because of its elevation and spring-fed inputs. Typical seasonal temperature ranges are roughly: winter near freezing, about 32°F (0°C) or lower when ice forms; spring warming from roughly 34–55°F (1–13°C); summer surface temperatures most often between about 60–72°F (16–22°C) at peak warmth; and fall cooling back to roughly 45–60°F (7–16°C). These figures are approximate averages and can vary with weather, depth, time of day and local inflows; deeper waters remain markedly colder than surface readings even in summer.
Swimming is generally allowed in recreation areas around Pactola Reservoir during the warmer months, and visitors often swim from beaches and shorelines when surface temperatures are highest. However, the water remains relatively cold compared with many lowland lakes, and there are areas where swimming is discouraged or restricted—near the dam, in boat traffic zones, and where sudden drop-offs or strong currents occur. Lifeguards are not usually posted, so swimmers should exercise caution, be aware of cold-water shock risk, and follow on-site signage and any seasonal advisories issued by local authorities.