Powerton Cooling Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Powerton Cooling Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Powerton Cooling Lake today is 18.5°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 65°F (18°C) to 68°F (20°C). This is already quite warm water, which is ideal for most people. Swimming becomes comfortable, and prolonged stays in the water do not cause discomfort. This temperature is perfect for family trips and for those who prefer warmer water. It is also comfortable for water sports such as surfing or swimming. 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 | 19.9°C | 19.0°C | |
| OCT 6 | 19.7°C | 19.0°C | |
| OCT 7 | 19.2°C | 19.0°C | |
| OCT 8 | 18.5°C | 19.0°C | |
| OCT 9 | 19.1°C | 19.0°C | |
| OCT 10 | 18.6°C | 19.0°C | |
| OCT 11 | 18.5°C | 19.0°C | |
| OCT 12 | 18.8°C | 19.0°C | |
| OCT 13 | 19.0°C | 18.5°C | |
| OCT 14 | 19.0°C | 18.6°C | |
| OCT 15 | 19.0°C | 18.6°C | |
| OCT 16 | 19.0°C | 18.6°C | |
| OCT 17 | 19.0°C | 18.6°C | |
| OCT 18 | 19.0°C | 18.7°C | |
| OCT 19 | 19.0°C | 18.7°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 | 2°C | 4°C | 7°C |
| February | 0°C | 3°C | 6°C |
| March | 3°C | 7°C | 11°C |
| April | 7°C | 13°C | 19°C |
| May | 14°C | 18°C | 22°C |
| June | 18°C | 23°C | 27°C |
| July | 23°C | 28°C | 33°C |
| August | 22°C | 27°C | 31°C |
| September | 20°C | 26°C | 31°C |
| October | 14°C | 19°C | 24°C |
| November | 3°C | 9°C | 14°C |
| December | 3°C | 7°C | 10°C |
Powerton Cooling Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Powerton Cooling Lake: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
Location & Local Information
Powerton Cooling Lake is a man‑made reservoir used as a heat sink for the Powerton power station near Pekin, Illinois. Water temperatures vary with the seasons and with proximity to plant discharge. Typical surface temperatures in summer often range roughly from the low 70s to around 90°F (about 21–32°C), and localized areas near the plant outflow can be several degrees warmer. In spring and fall surface readings commonly fall in the mid 40s to mid 60s°F (about 7–19°C) as the lake transitions, while winter temperatures can approach freezing, roughly 32–40°F (0–4°C), especially under ice or nearshore. Thermal stratification and short‑term temperature spikes near discharge points are common, so conditions are variable across the lake.
Swimming at Powerton is generally not permitted or is strongly discouraged. The lake’s primary function is industrial cooling, which creates safety hazards such as warm discharge currents, submerged infrastructure, sudden temperature gradients, and variable water quality that are not appropriate for recreational use. Access is often restricted by property controls and warning signage, and local authorities or the facility operator typically advise against entering the water for liability and safety reasons.