Rough River Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Rough River Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Rough River Lake today is 21.3°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
✅ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 68°F (20°C) to 74°F (23°C). The water is warm and pleasant for swimming, and in this range, one can stay in the water for extended periods without the risk of hypothermia. This is the ideal temperature for relaxation, swimming, and water sports. Families with children, as well as outdoor enthusiasts, will enjoy swimming and time spent in the water. For most people, this is the optimal temperature for a comfortable beach experience. 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| AUG 4 | 21.1°C | 23.5°C | |
| AUG 5 | 21.2°C | 23.5°C | |
| AUG 6 | 21.3°C | 23.5°C | |
| AUG 7 | 21.1°C | 23.5°C | |
| AUG 8 | 21.0°C | 23.5°C | |
| AUG 9 | 22.7°C | 23.5°C | |
| AUG 10 | 22.7°C | 23.5°C | |
| AUG 11 | 21.3°C | 23.5°C | |
| AUG 12 | 23.5°C | 21.4°C | |
| AUG 13 | 23.5°C | 21.5°C | |
| AUG 14 | 23.5°C | 21.6°C | |
| AUG 15 | 23.5°C | 21.7°C | |
| AUG 16 | 23.5°C | 21.9°C | |
| AUG 17 | 23.5°C | 22.0°C | |
| AUG 18 | 23.5°C | 22.1°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 | 6°C | 10°C | 14°C |
| February | 8°C | 11°C | 14°C |
| March | 9°C | 13°C | 17°C |
| April | 9°C | 15°C | 20°C |
| May | 15°C | 21°C | 27°C |
| June | 15°C | 21°C | 27°C |
| July | 17°C | 25°C | 32°C |
| August | 17°C | 24°C | 30°C |
| September | 17°C | 24°C | 31°C |
| October | 16°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| November | 10°C | 13°C | 16°C |
| December | 7°C | 11°C | 15°C |
Rough River Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Rough River Lake: Weather Forecast
August 12
August 13
August 14
August 15
August 16
Location & Local Information
Rough River Lake in Kentucky experiences pronounced seasonal shifts in surface water temperature. In winter the surface commonly drops to roughly 34–45°F (1–7°C), while spring sees a gradual rise into the mid‑40s to mid‑60s°F (7–18°C) as the upper layers warm. Summer surface temperatures often peak in the low 70s to low 80s°F (21–28°C) on warm afternoons, and early fall generally cools back into the mid‑50s to low 70s°F (13–21°C). These values refer principally to the top few feet of the water column; deeper water remains noticeably colder year‑round, and temperatures can change quickly with weather and wind.
Swimming is permitted at Rough River Lake, particularly in marked beaches and park swim areas maintained for recreation, because the lake is managed for multiple public uses. Visitors should swim in designated areas where conditions and access are intended for bathing; outside those zones swimmers face hazards such as boat traffic, submerged structure, variable currents and sudden temperature drops. Local authorities and park staff periodically monitor conditions, but swimmers should be mindful of cold‑water shock in spring or on windy days, follow posted rules, and exercise caution whenever entering the water.