Priest Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Priest Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Priest Lake today is 14.6°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 54°F (12°C) to 60°F (15°C). The water is significantly warmer, and swimming becomes possible for most people. However, caution may still be required for prolonged stays in the water, as extended exposure can cause discomfort. This is a suitable temperature range for short swims and for those accustomed to cooler water. For more comfortable swimming, it is recommended to use proper gear. 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| SEP 14 | 17.8°C | 18.3°C | |
| SEP 15 | 16.7°C | 18.3°C | |
| SEP 16 | 16.0°C | 18.3°C | |
| SEP 17 | 15.6°C | 18.3°C | |
| SEP 18 | 15.7°C | 18.3°C | |
| SEP 19 | 15.3°C | 18.3°C | |
| SEP 20 | 14.5°C | 18.3°C | |
| SEP 21 | 14.6°C | 18.3°C | |
| SEP 22 | 18.3°C | 14.8°C | |
| SEP 23 | 18.3°C | 15.0°C | |
| SEP 24 | 18.3°C | 15.2°C | |
| SEP 25 | 18.3°C | 15.3°C | |
| SEP 26 | 18.3°C | 15.5°C | |
| SEP 27 | 18.3°C | 15.7°C | |
| SEP 28 | 18.3°C | 15.9°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 | 2°C | 5°C |
| February | 2°C | 4°C | 7°C |
| March | 2°C | 4°C | 7°C |
| April | 0°C | 4°C | 9°C |
| May | 6°C | 11°C | 16°C |
| June | 10°C | 14°C | 18°C |
| July | 14°C | 19°C | 25°C |
| August | 18°C | 22°C | 25°C |
| September | 14°C | 18°C | 23°C |
| October | 6°C | 11°C | 16°C |
| November | 3°C | 7°C | 11°C |
| December | 1°C | 4°C | 7°C |
Priest Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Priest Lake: Weather Forecast
September 22
September 23
September 24
September 25
September 26
Location & Local Information
Priest Lake in northern Idaho is a cold, mountain-fed body of water whose surface temperatures vary widely with the seasons. In spring (April–May) surface temperatures are typically in the mid-30s to mid-50s°F (2–13°C) as snowmelt cools the lake. By early summer (June) the surface often warms into the 50s–60s°F (10–16°C), and during the warmest months of July and August it commonly reaches the low-60s to low-70s°F (16–22°C) on sunny days. In autumn (September–October) surface readings generally fall back into the 50s–upper-40s°F (10–9°C) range, and in winter the lake approaches freezing with surface temperatures near 32–40°F (0–4°C), often developing ice cover in colder years. Deeper water remains colder year-round.
Swimming is allowed at Priest Lake and is a common summer activity at developed beaches and along the shoreline because the lake is public and managed for recreation. That said, the water can feel brisk even in summer and carries cold-water risks such as cold shock and rapid loss of body heat; boaters and swimmers should be aware that temperatures drop quickly with depth and that facilities and lifeguards may be limited. Visitors are advised to dress for the conditions, enter gradually, and follow posted safety guidance.