Palisades Reservoir — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Palisades Reservoir, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Palisades Reservoir today is 12.9°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 | 13.3°C | 10.5°C | |
| OCT 6 | 13.4°C | 10.5°C | |
| OCT 7 | 13.1°C | 10.5°C | |
| OCT 8 | 13.3°C | 10.5°C | |
| OCT 9 | 13.3°C | 10.5°C | |
| OCT 10 | 13.2°C | 10.5°C | |
| OCT 11 | 12.8°C | 10.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 13.1°C | 10.5°C | |
| OCT 13 | 10.5°C | 12.8°C | |
| OCT 14 | 10.5°C | 12.7°C | |
| OCT 15 | 10.5°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 16 | 10.5°C | 12.4°C | |
| OCT 17 | 10.5°C | 12.3°C | |
| OCT 18 | 10.5°C | 12.2°C | |
| OCT 19 | 10.5°C | 12.1°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 | 0°C | 3°C | 5°C |
| February | 2°C | 4°C | 7°C |
| March | 2°C | 5°C | 9°C |
| April | 0°C | 5°C | 10°C |
| May | 4°C | 10°C | 16°C |
| June | 11°C | 15°C | 19°C |
| July | 14°C | 19°C | 24°C |
| August | 17°C | 20°C | 24°C |
| September | 13°C | 17°C | 22°C |
| October | 7°C | 11°C | 14°C |
| November | 4°C | 7°C | 10°C |
| December | 2°C | 4°C | 7°C |
Palisades Reservoir: Water Temperature by Location
Palisades Reservoir: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
October 18
Location & Local Information
Palisades Reservoir, a high-elevation impoundment on the Snake River in eastern Idaho, stays relatively cool year-round because of snowmelt inflows and depth. Typical seasonal surface temperatures in spring range from roughly 33–55°F (1–13°C) as snowmelt dominates, while summer brings the warmest conditions, often about 55–72°F (13–22°C) on sunny days at the surface. In autumn the water cools back to roughly 40–60°F (4–16°C) as air temperatures drop, and in winter the reservoir can approach near-freezing conditions of about 32–39°F (0–4°C), with ice forming in colder spells. Local variations occur with depth, wind, and inflow from colder tributaries, so actual readings at a given spot can differ from these general ranges.
Swimming at Palisades Reservoir is generally permitted because the area is managed for public recreation, including beaches, boat launches, and day-use sites, but it is not uniformly supervised and some zones near the dam, marinas, or intake structures may be off-limits for safety. Many visitors swim during the warmer summer months when surface temperatures are most comfortable, but caution is advised because cold water, sudden drop-offs, boat traffic, and strong currents near inlets can create hazards. Visitors should obey posted signs, wear life jackets when appropriate, and be mindful of cold‑water shock even on warm days.