Portage Lakes — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Portage Lakes, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Portage Lakes today is 17.2°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| OCT 5 | 19.5°C | 19.0°C | |
| OCT 6 | 19.2°C | 19.0°C | |
| OCT 7 | 19.3°C | 19.0°C | |
| OCT 8 | 19.0°C | 19.0°C | |
| OCT 9 | 18.1°C | 19.0°C | |
| OCT 10 | 18.3°C | 19.0°C | |
| OCT 11 | 17.6°C | 19.0°C | |
| OCT 12 | 17.8°C | 19.0°C | |
| OCT 13 | 19.0°C | 17.3°C | |
| OCT 14 | 19.0°C | 17.4°C | |
| OCT 15 | 19.0°C | 17.5°C | |
| OCT 16 | 19.0°C | 17.6°C | |
| OCT 17 | 19.0°C | 17.7°C | |
| OCT 18 | 19.0°C | 17.7°C | |
| OCT 19 | 19.0°C | 17.8°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 | 6°C |
| February | 0°C | 4°C | 7°C |
| March | 1°C | 6°C | 10°C |
| April | 5°C | 11°C | 18°C |
| May | 12°C | 16°C | 21°C |
| June | 15°C | 20°C | 24°C |
| July | 21°C | 25°C | 30°C |
| August | 21°C | 25°C | 29°C |
| September | 20°C | 23°C | 26°C |
| October | 15°C | 19°C | 23°C |
| November | 6°C | 11°C | 15°C |
| December | 3°C | 6°C | 10°C |
Portage Lakes: Water Temperature by Location
Portage Lakes: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
October 18
Location & Local Information
The Portage Lakes in northeastern Ohio experience a wide seasonal swing in water temperature. In winter the lakes often approach freezing, with surface temperatures around 32–40°F (0–4°C) and occasional ice cover. During spring the water commonly warms from roughly 40–60°F (4–16°C) as sunlight and runoff change conditions. By summer surface temperatures typically climb into the 70–80°F range (21–27°C), and during warm spells late summer readings can reach the mid‑70s to mid‑80s °F (24–29°C) at the surface while deeper waters remain cooler. In autumn the lakes cool again, generally falling back into the 50–65°F band (10–18°C) before winter sets in.
Swimming is permitted at designated beach and park areas around the Portage Lakes during the warmer months, but access is governed by local rules and periodic water quality monitoring. Authorities commonly open supervised swimming where lifeguards, signage and facilities are provided, yet advisories or closures can occur because of harmful algal blooms (cyanobacteria), bacterial contamination, or stormwater runoff that degrade water quality. Visitors should swim only in marked areas when beaches are posted as open and heed current advisories, since conditions can change with weather, nutrient levels and lake circulation.