Prairie Creek Reservoir — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Prairie Creek Reservoir, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Prairie Creek Reservoir 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 | 20.6°C | 20.5°C | |
| OCT 6 | 20.3°C | 20.5°C | |
| OCT 7 | 19.8°C | 20.5°C | |
| OCT 8 | 19.0°C | 20.5°C | |
| OCT 9 | 19.2°C | 20.5°C | |
| OCT 10 | 18.6°C | 20.5°C | |
| OCT 11 | 18.1°C | 20.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 18.7°C | 20.5°C | |
| OCT 13 | 20.5°C | 18.6°C | |
| OCT 14 | 20.5°C | 18.7°C | |
| OCT 15 | 20.5°C | 18.8°C | |
| OCT 16 | 20.5°C | 18.9°C | |
| OCT 17 | 20.5°C | 19.0°C | |
| OCT 18 | 20.5°C | 19.1°C | |
| OCT 19 | 20.5°C | 19.2°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 | 1°C | 4°C | 6°C |
| February | 0°C | 2°C | 5°C |
| March | 0°C | 4°C | 9°C |
| April | 5°C | 10°C | 16°C |
| May | 13°C | 16°C | 20°C |
| June | 16°C | 20°C | 24°C |
| July | 20°C | 24°C | 28°C |
| August | 23°C | 26°C | 29°C |
| September | 21°C | 25°C | 28°C |
| October | 17°C | 21°C | 24°C |
| November | 5°C | 11°C | 16°C |
| December | 2°C | 6°C | 9°C |
Prairie Creek Reservoir: Water Temperature by Location
Prairie Creek Reservoir: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
October 18
Location & Local Information
Prairie Creek Reservoir in southern Indiana follows the seasonal temperature patterns typical of small Midwestern impoundments. Surface temperatures in winter usually hover close to freezing, roughly 33–40°F (0.5–4°C). During spring the lake warms into the mid‑40s to mid‑60s Fahrenheit (about 7–18°C) as air temperatures rise and stratification begins. In summer the warmest surface readings often reach the low to upper 70s and can approach the 80s on hot spells, roughly 21–29°C, while deeper water stays noticeably cooler. By fall the surface cools again into the 50s and low 60s (10–17°C) as the lake mixes and loses summer heat.
Swimming at Prairie Creek Reservoir is possible but is typically informal and often done at one’s own risk rather than at lifeguarded beaches; specific areas may be posted with rules or seasonal advisories. Management and public-safety concerns — including water quality issues like algae blooms, variable visibility, steep dropoffs, submerged structure, and boat traffic — can lead to temporary restrictions or warnings. Visitors should check current local guidance before entering the water, be aware of the seasonally cold temperatures that increase hypothermia risk outside midsummer, and avoid swimming where signs or local officials prohibit it.