Richard B Russell Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Richard B Russell Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Richard B Russell Lake today is 24.8°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
✅ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 75°F (23°C) to 79°F (26°C). This is a very comfortable temperature for swimming, and many people can enjoy prolonged stays in the water without feeling cold. The water is pleasantly warm, making it ideal for relaxation and water sports. This temperature range is particularly popular among tourists, as it combines comfort and safety for health. 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 20 | 23.4°C | 26.0°C | |
| SEP 21 | 25.4°C | 26.0°C | |
| SEP 22 | 25.5°C | 26.0°C | |
| SEP 23 | 24.6°C | 26.0°C | |
| SEP 24 | 25.1°C | 26.0°C | |
| SEP 25 | 25.5°C | 26.0°C | |
| SEP 26 | 24.9°C | 26.0°C | |
| SEP 27 | 24.8°C | 26.0°C | |
| SEP 28 | 26.0°C | 24.7°C | |
| SEP 29 | 26.0°C | 24.6°C | |
| SEP 30 | 26.0°C | 24.5°C | |
| OCT 1 | 23.0°C | 24.4°C | |
| OCT 2 | 23.0°C | 24.4°C | |
| OCT 3 | 23.0°C | 24.3°C | |
| OCT 4 | 23.0°C | 24.2°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 | 7°C | 10°C | 13°C |
| February | 5°C | 9°C | 14°C |
| March | 8°C | 13°C | 19°C |
| April | 15°C | 19°C | 23°C |
| May | 18°C | 22°C | 25°C |
| June | 21°C | 25°C | 28°C |
| July | 23°C | 26°C | 30°C |
| August | 23°C | 27°C | 31°C |
| September | 23°C | 26°C | 29°C |
| October | 19°C | 23°C | 27°C |
| November | 13°C | 17°C | 20°C |
| December | 9°C | 13°C | 16°C |
Richard B Russell Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Richard B Russell Lake: Weather Forecast
September 27
September 28
September 29
September 30
October 1
October 2
Location & Local Information
Richard B. Russell Lake, a large reservoir on the Georgia–South Carolina border, experiences pronounced seasonal variation in surface water temperature. In summer the upper layers commonly warm to about 75–85°F (24–29°C) and can climb into the low 90s (≈32–33°C) during prolonged heat, while fall cooling brings surface readings down to roughly 55–75°F (13–24°C). Spring temperatures typically range from about 50–70°F (10–21°C) as the lake transitions out of winter, and winter surface temperatures often sit between 40–55°F (4–13°C). Because the reservoir stratifies in warm months, deeper water remains considerably colder than the surface, and temperatures can change quickly with depth or after heavy inflows.
Swimming is generally allowed at Richard B. Russell Lake because it is managed for multiple recreational uses, including bathing in many Corps-managed parks and public access sites, but conditions and rules vary by shoreline and recreation area. There are few, if any, lifeguarded beaches on the reservoir, and hazards such as sudden drop-offs, submerged timber, boat traffic and cold deep water make caution essential. Seasonal water temperatures affect comfort and safety: summer offers the most comfortable swimming, spring and fall can be chilly for prolonged exposure, and winter water is cold enough to pose a risk of cold-water shock. Observing posted rules at specific parks and using common-sense safety measures is recommended.