Rocky Gorge Reservoir — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Rocky Gorge Reservoir, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Rocky Gorge Reservoir today is 19.1°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 65°F (18°C) to 68°F (20°C). This is already quite warm water, which is ideal for most people. Swimming becomes comfortable, and prolonged stays in the water do not cause discomfort. This temperature is perfect for family trips and for those who prefer warmer water. It is also comfortable for water sports such as surfing or swimming. 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 5 | 21.2°C | 19.5°C | |
| OCT 6 | 20.5°C | 19.5°C | |
| OCT 7 | 20.9°C | 19.5°C | |
| OCT 8 | 20.0°C | 19.5°C | |
| OCT 9 | 19.4°C | 19.5°C | |
| OCT 10 | 19.4°C | 19.5°C | |
| OCT 11 | 19.4°C | 19.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 19.3°C | 19.5°C | |
| OCT 13 | 19.5°C | 19.1°C | |
| OCT 14 | 19.5°C | 19.1°C | |
| OCT 15 | 19.5°C | 19.2°C | |
| OCT 16 | 19.5°C | 19.2°C | |
| OCT 17 | 19.5°C | 19.2°C | |
| OCT 18 | 19.5°C | 19.2°C | |
| OCT 19 | 19.5°C | 19.2°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 | 2°C | 5°C | 8°C |
| February | 1°C | 4°C | 7°C |
| March | 2°C | 7°C | 12°C |
| April | 10°C | 14°C | 19°C |
| May | 14°C | 19°C | 25°C |
| June | 18°C | 23°C | 27°C |
| July | 24°C | 27°C | 31°C |
| August | 23°C | 27°C | 31°C |
| September | 22°C | 26°C | 29°C |
| October | 16°C | 20°C | 23°C |
| November | 7°C | 12°C | 17°C |
| December | 3°C | 5°C | 8°C |
Rocky Gorge Reservoir: Water Temperature by Location
Rocky Gorge Reservoir: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
October 18
Location & Local Information
Rocky Gorge Reservoir, often called the Lake of the Rocky Gorge, follows the typical Mid-Atlantic seasonal pattern for surface water temperatures. In winter the surface commonly sits near freezing to the upper 30s Fahrenheit (about 0–4 °C). Spring brings a steady rise, with surface temperatures roughly in the 40s to low 60s °F (4–17 °C) as the lake mixes. By summer the top layers commonly warm into the mid-60s to upper 70s °F (18–26 °C), and during heat spells surface pockets can briefly reach the low 80s °F (27–28 °C), while deeper water remains much cooler. Fall sees a reverse cooling trend, with temperatures dropping back into the 50s and 40s °F (10–7 °C) as the lake overturns. These are approximate ranges; local weather, depth, shading and inflow conditions change the actual readings on any given day.
Swimming at Rocky Gorge Reservoir is not offered as a supervised, designated beach activity and is restricted because the reservoir is managed for water supply and safety. There are no lifeguards, marked swim areas or facilities, and hazards such as cold deeper water, sudden drop-offs, boat traffic, submerged structures and occasional algal or water‑quality advisories increase risks. For those seeking to enter the water, nearby public pools and designated state or county swim beaches are safer and are regulated for public use; visitors to Rocky Gorge should observe posted rules and advisory notices.