Rifle Gap Reservoir — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Rifle Gap Reservoir, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Rifle Gap Reservoir today is 9°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
❌ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 47°F (8°C) to 50°F (10°C). This is still cool water, suitable only for experienced swimmers or those accustomed to cold water. Swimming in such conditions is possible, but not recommended for prolonged periods. Extra caution should be taken during extended exposure, as the cold water can cause heat loss and lead to hypothermia. For added comfort, special clothing can be used. 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 26 | 12.3°C | 14.0°C | |
| OCT 27 | 11.6°C | 14.0°C | |
| OCT 28 | 11.1°C | 14.0°C | |
| OCT 29 | 10.7°C | 14.0°C | |
| OCT 30 | 9.7°C | 14.0°C | |
| OCT 31 | 9.6°C | 14.0°C | |
| NOV 1 | 10.1°C | 7.2°C | |
| NOV 2 | 9.0°C | 7.2°C | |
| NOV 3 | 7.2°C | 8.9°C | |
| NOV 4 | 7.2°C | 8.8°C | |
| NOV 5 | 7.2°C | 8.7°C | |
| NOV 6 | 7.2°C | 8.6°C | |
| NOV 7 | 7.2°C | 8.6°C | |
| NOV 8 | 7.2°C | 8.5°C | |
| NOV 9 | 7.2°C | 8.4°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 | 5°C | 8°C |
| March | 3°C | 7°C | 12°C |
| April | 4°C | 8°C | 13°C |
| May | 9°C | 13°C | 18°C |
| June | 11°C | 17°C | 22°C |
| July | 19°C | 25°C | 30°C |
| August | 18°C | 22°C | 26°C |
| September | 17°C | 21°C | 24°C |
| October | 11°C | 14°C | 17°C |
| November | 3°C | 7°C | 11°C |
| December | 0°C | 3°C | 6°C |
Rifle Gap Reservoir: Water Temperature by Location
Rifle Gap Reservoir: Weather Forecast
November 3
November 4
November 5
November 6
November 7
Location & Local Information
Rifle Gap Reservoir is a high-desert mountain impoundment, so its water stays cooler than lowland lakes. Typical surface temperatures in summer often range from about 60–75°F (16–24°C) on warm afternoons, though heat waves can push readings a bit higher. In spring and fall the reservoir commonly sits between roughly 40–55°F (4–13°C), and in winter the surface can approach freezing, about 32–40°F (0–4°C), with ice possible in sustained cold spells. These numbers shift with weather, wind, inflows from cold mountain creeks and the depth at which measurements are taken; deeper water remains substantially colder year‑round.
Swimming is allowed at Rifle Gap as part of Rifle Gap State Park recreation, but it is generally ungarded and therefore at your own risk. Because the reservoir is fed by mountain runoff and can be cold beneath the surface, swimmers should be aware of cold shock and hypothermia risks, especially outside midsummer. Boats and personal watercraft also operate on the reservoir, so swimmers should use caution and stay within visible areas. Observing posted park rules, checking current conditions, and wearing a personal flotation device when appropriate will help reduce hazards associated with cold, variable water and recreational traffic.