Paulina Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Paulina Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Paulina Lake today is 11.9°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
❌ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 50°F (10°C) to 54°F (12°C). The water is slightly warmer, but still cool for most people. Swimming in such conditions is possible, but for most people, the time spent in the water should be limited to avoid hypothermia. Even experienced swimmers may feel discomfort if they stay in the water for too long. To improve comfort and safety, a wetsuit can be used. 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 | 11.8°C | 14.0°C | |
| OCT 6 | 12.0°C | 14.0°C | |
| OCT 7 | 11.8°C | 14.0°C | |
| OCT 8 | 12.2°C | 14.0°C | |
| OCT 9 | 12.2°C | 14.0°C | |
| OCT 10 | 11.8°C | 14.0°C | |
| OCT 11 | 12.3°C | 14.0°C | |
| OCT 12 | 12.8°C | 14.0°C | |
| OCT 13 | 14.0°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 14 | 14.0°C | 12.1°C | |
| OCT 15 | 14.0°C | 12.2°C | |
| OCT 16 | 14.0°C | 12.3°C | |
| OCT 17 | 14.0°C | 12.4°C | |
| OCT 18 | 14.0°C | 12.5°C | |
| OCT 19 | 14.0°C | 12.6°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 | 1°C | 3°C |
| March | 0°C | 3°C | 6°C |
| April | 1°C | 8°C | 15°C |
| May | 4°C | 13°C | 21°C |
| June | 8°C | 16°C | 23°C |
| July | 11°C | 19°C | 26°C |
| August | 13°C | 20°C | 27°C |
| September | 13°C | 18°C | 22°C |
| October | 10°C | 14°C | 18°C |
| November | 0°C | 6°C | 11°C |
| December | 0°C | 2°C | 4°C |
Paulina Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Paulina Lake: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
Location & Local Information
Paulina Lake, sitting in the Newberry Caldera in central Oregon, tends to have cool water year-round because of its high elevation and depth. Seasonal surface temperatures typically run from near freezing in winter — around 32–39°F (0–4°C) when ice or slush can form — to roughly 34–50°F (1–10°C) in spring as snowmelt keeps the lake cold. In summer the surface can warm and often reaches about 60–70°F (16–21°C) on warm, sunny days, though evenings and windy conditions cool the water quickly. In fall the lake generally drops back toward 50–60°F (10–16°C). Deeper layers remain much colder throughout the year, commonly staying below about 45°F (7°C), so there is a pronounced thermocline.
Swimming is allowed at Paulina Lake and visitors often enter the water in summer, but it is important to be cautious because of the persistent cold and lack of lifeguards. The combination of chilly surface temperatures, abrupt cold at depth, and rapid weather changes increases the risk of cold-water shock and hypothermia, so swimmers should limit exposure, wear a wetsuit if planning longer swims, and stay near shore or boats. The area is managed for recreation, so access is available, but safety precautions are strongly advised.