Rangeley Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Rangeley Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Rangeley Lake today is 16.7°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| SEP 14 | 17.9°C | 18.3°C | |
| SEP 15 | 17.9°C | 18.3°C | |
| SEP 16 | 16.6°C | 18.3°C | |
| SEP 17 | 16.3°C | 18.3°C | |
| SEP 18 | 16.3°C | 18.3°C | |
| SEP 19 | 17.2°C | 18.3°C | |
| SEP 20 | 16.5°C | 18.3°C | |
| SEP 21 | 16.7°C | 18.3°C | |
| SEP 22 | 18.3°C | 16.8°C | |
| SEP 23 | 18.3°C | 16.9°C | |
| SEP 24 | 18.3°C | 16.9°C | |
| SEP 25 | 18.3°C | 17.0°C | |
| SEP 26 | 18.3°C | 17.1°C | |
| SEP 27 | 18.3°C | 17.2°C | |
| SEP 28 | 18.3°C | 17.3°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 | 5°C |
| February | 1°C | 4°C | 6°C |
| March | 2°C | 5°C | 7°C |
| April | 0°C | 2°C | 5°C |
| May | 1°C | 6°C | 12°C |
| June | 8°C | 12°C | 17°C |
| July | 16°C | 21°C | 26°C |
| August | 18°C | 20°C | 23°C |
| September | 16°C | 18°C | 21°C |
| October | 8°C | 12°C | 16°C |
| November | 3°C | 6°C | 9°C |
| December | 2°C | 5°C | 7°C |
Rangeley Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Rangeley Lake: Weather Forecast
September 22
September 23
September 24
September 25
September 26
Location & Local Information
Rangeley Lake in western Maine is a relatively cool, elevated watersystem, so its surface temperatures change markedly through the year. In winter the lake usually freezes and water under the ice stays close to freezing, roughly 32–39°F (0–4°C). Spring warming brings surface readings from about 35–60°F (2–16°C) depending on late-season weather. In summer, when recreational use peaks, typical surface temperatures are in the neighborhood of 60–75°F (16–24°C) on warm days, though deeper water remains colder. By fall the lake cools again, with common surface ranges of about 45–60°F (7–16°C) as air temperatures drop and stratification breaks down.
Swimming is permitted in many parts of Rangeley Lake, including public beach areas and private shorelines, but conditions dictate when it is advisable. The warmest, most comfortable swimming occurs in summer when surface temperatures reach the mid‑60s to mid‑70s °F (mid‑teens to low‑20s °C); outside that window the water can feel brisk and poses a greater risk of cold‑water shock or hypothermia. Ice cover in winter precludes open‑water swimming. Users should follow posted signs, use designated swimming areas where available, be mindful of boat traffic, and take normal cold‑water precautions.