Pickwick Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Pickwick Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Pickwick Lake today is 16°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| NOV 2 | 17.5°C | 15.9°C | |
| NOV 3 | 17.0°C | 15.9°C | |
| NOV 4 | 17.0°C | 15.9°C | |
| NOV 5 | 16.6°C | 15.9°C | |
| NOV 6 | 16.5°C | 15.9°C | |
| NOV 7 | 16.5°C | 15.9°C | |
| NOV 8 | 17.2°C | 15.9°C | |
| NOV 9 | 16.0°C | 15.9°C | |
| NOV 10 | 15.9°C | 16.0°C | |
| NOV 11 | 15.9°C | 16.0°C | |
| NOV 12 | 15.9°C | 16.0°C | |
| NOV 13 | 15.9°C | 16.0°C | |
| NOV 14 | 15.9°C | 16.0°C | |
| NOV 15 | 15.9°C | 16.0°C | |
| NOV 16 | 15.9°C | 16.0°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 | 4°C | 9°C | 12°C |
| February | 4°C | 8°C | 12°C |
| March | 8°C | 12°C | 17°C |
| April | 10°C | 16°C | 23°C |
| May | 17°C | 21°C | 26°C |
| June | 21°C | 25°C | 29°C |
| July | 23°C | 28°C | 33°C |
| August | 24°C | 27°C | 30°C |
| September | 22°C | 26°C | 29°C |
| October | 18°C | 24°C | 30°C |
| November | 11°C | 16°C | 20°C |
| December | 5°C | 8°C | 12°C |
Pickwick Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Pickwick Lake: Weather Forecast
November 10
November 11
November 12
November 13
November 14
November 15
Location & Local Information
Pickwick Lake spans three states—Alabama, Mississippi and Tennessee—and lies along the Tennessee Valley Authority-managed Tennessee River system. Its water temperature shows wide seasonal variation: in the coldest months of January and February, surface values typically hover around 45–50 °F (7–10 °C). During spring, the lake warms steadily and by May averages roughly 68–77 °F (20–25 °C) according to historical data. In summer, warm conditions prevail and the surface water commonly reaches 78–91 °F (26–33 °C) in July and August. As autumn sets in the water gradually cools through September and October, dropping toward 65–75 °F (18–24 °C) before returning to winter levels.
Swimming is allowed in Pickwick Lake and it is a popular destination for recreation during the warmer months. Public beaches like those at Pickwick Landing State Park provide access to shallow, gentle shore areas suitable for swimmers. Because the lake is large and supports boating, fishing and other water sports, swimmers should choose designated swimming zones and be mindful of boat traffic and varying water levels. With summer water temperatures in the mid- to upper 70s and low 80s °F (mid-20s to low-30s °C), conditions are typically comfortable for swimming and extended stays in the water. In cooler months however the water becomes much less inviting, so the prime period for swimming runs from late spring into early fall.