Philpott Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Philpott Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Philpott Lake today is 20.6°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
✅ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 68°F (20°C) to 74°F (23°C). The water is warm and pleasant for swimming, and in this range, one can stay in the water for extended periods without the risk of hypothermia. This is the ideal temperature for relaxation, swimming, and water sports. Families with children, as well as outdoor enthusiasts, will enjoy swimming and time spent in the water. For most people, this is the optimal temperature for a comfortable beach experience. 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| JUN 3 | 18.3°C | 22.0°C | |
| JUN 4 | 18.2°C | 22.0°C | |
| JUN 5 | 18.6°C | 22.0°C | |
| JUN 6 | 19.2°C | 22.0°C | |
| JUN 7 | 19.5°C | 22.0°C | |
| JUN 8 | 20.1°C | 22.0°C | |
| JUN 10 | 20.6°C | 22.0°C | |
| JUN 11 | 22.0°C | 20.7°C | |
| JUN 12 | 22.0°C | 20.7°C | |
| JUN 13 | 22.0°C | 20.8°C | |
| JUN 14 | 22.0°C | 20.9°C | |
| JUN 15 | 22.0°C | 21.0°C | |
| JUN 16 | 22.0°C | 21.0°C | |
| JUN 17 | 22.0°C | 21.1°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 | 3°C | 10°C | 17°C |
| February | 2°C | 11°C | 19°C |
| March | 6°C | 13°C | 19°C |
| April | 10°C | 18°C | 25°C |
| May | 14°C | 20°C | 26°C |
| June | 17°C | 22°C | 27°C |
| July | 24°C | 28°C | 32°C |
| August | 22°C | 26°C | 30°C |
| September | 21°C | 26°C | 30°C |
| October | 16°C | 21°C | 26°C |
| November | 10°C | 16°C | 22°C |
| December | 4°C | 9°C | 14°C |
Philpott Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Philpott Lake: Weather Forecast
June 9
June 10
June 11
June 12
June 13
Location & Local Information
Philpott Lake is a Corps-managed reservoir in southwestern Virginia whose surface temperatures vary widely through the year because of seasonal air temperatures and reservoir operations. In summer the surface usually warms into the low to upper 70s °F (about 21–27 °C), providing the warmest swimming conditions. Spring brings cooler water as snowmelt and runoff lower temperatures into roughly the mid‑40s to mid‑60s °F (about 7–18 °C). Fall temperatures typically fall back to the 50s and low 70s °F (around 10–21 °C). In winter the lake can approach near‑freezing surface values, often in the mid‑30s to mid‑40s °F (1–7 °C), so immersion is very cold and can be hazardous.
Swimming is permitted at Philpott Lake but generally only in designated recreation areas and beaches, and typically without lifeguards—swimming is therefore at your own risk. The lake’s primary roles in flood control and water supply mean water levels and currents can change with dam releases, creating unexpected drops, cold outflows, submerged hazards, and boat traffic that affect safety. For these reasons visitors are advised to heed posted rules, choose sheltered designated areas for swimming, and be aware that cold spring and winter temperatures increase the risk of cold shock and hypothermia even when air temperatures feel mild.