Raystown Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Raystown Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Raystown Lake today is 17°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 6 | 19.1°C | 16.5°C | |
| OCT 7 | 18.7°C | 16.5°C | |
| OCT 8 | 17.9°C | 16.5°C | |
| OCT 9 | 17.8°C | 16.5°C | |
| OCT 10 | 18.2°C | 16.5°C | |
| OCT 11 | 17.5°C | 16.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 17.5°C | 16.5°C | |
| OCT 13 | 17.0°C | 16.5°C | |
| OCT 14 | 16.5°C | 17.0°C | |
| OCT 15 | 16.5°C | 17.0°C | |
| OCT 16 | 16.5°C | 16.9°C | |
| OCT 17 | 16.5°C | 16.9°C | |
| OCT 18 | 16.5°C | 16.9°C | |
| OCT 19 | 16.5°C | 16.9°C | |
| OCT 20 | 16.5°C | 16.8°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 | 1°C | 4°C | 7°C |
| February | 1°C | 4°C | 7°C |
| March | 1°C | 6°C | 11°C |
| April | 4°C | 9°C | 15°C |
| May | 12°C | 17°C | 23°C |
| June | 15°C | 20°C | 24°C |
| July | 22°C | 25°C | 27°C |
| August | 21°C | 25°C | 29°C |
| September | 19°C | 22°C | 25°C |
| October | 13°C | 17°C | 20°C |
| November | 7°C | 13°C | 18°C |
| December | 3°C | 6°C | 8°C |
Raystown Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Raystown Lake: Weather Forecast
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
October 18
Location & Local Information
Raystown Lake’s surface temperatures change substantially with the seasons and with depth. In spring the water typically runs cool, roughly 40–65°F (4–18°C) as snowmelt and runoff keep the lake chilly. By summer the heated surface waters commonly reach about 70–80°F (21–27°C), and shallow bays or very warm spells can push localized spots into the low 80s°F (27–29°C). Fall brings a steady cooling to roughly 50–65°F (10–18°C) as air temperatures decline and turnover begins. In winter the lake often approaches freezing at the surface, around 32–40°F (0–4°C), and may ice over in colder months; deeper water remains markedly colder year-round due to stratification. These figures are approximate and vary with weather, depth, currents and location in the reservoir.
Swimming is permitted at Raystown Lake in designated recreation areas and along many shorelines, but the lake is primarily a multiuse reservoir so safety considerations apply. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and local authorities allow bathing where posted, yet many spots are unsupervised and boat traffic, drop-offs, cold-water shock, and changing currents can create hazards. For that reason visitors are advised to swim in marked areas when available, use flotation for weaker swimmers, and heed seasonal temperature risks—cold spring or fall water can impair mobility and breathing even when air feels mild.