Salt Fork Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Salt Fork Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Salt Fork Lake today is 17.5°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 5 | 20.4°C | 18.0°C | |
| OCT 6 | 20.0°C | 18.0°C | |
| OCT 7 | 19.5°C | 18.0°C | |
| OCT 8 | 19.0°C | 18.0°C | |
| OCT 9 | 18.7°C | 18.0°C | |
| OCT 10 | 19.0°C | 18.0°C | |
| OCT 11 | 18.7°C | 18.0°C | |
| OCT 12 | 17.9°C | 18.0°C | |
| OCT 13 | 18.0°C | 17.5°C | |
| OCT 14 | 18.0°C | 17.6°C | |
| OCT 15 | 18.0°C | 17.6°C | |
| OCT 16 | 18.0°C | 17.6°C | |
| OCT 17 | 18.0°C | 17.6°C | |
| OCT 18 | 18.0°C | 17.7°C | |
| OCT 19 | 18.0°C | 17.7°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 | 4°C | 6°C |
| February | 0°C | 4°C | 7°C |
| March | 2°C | 7°C | 11°C |
| April | 5°C | 12°C | 19°C |
| May | 13°C | 17°C | 21°C |
| June | 15°C | 20°C | 25°C |
| July | 21°C | 25°C | 29°C |
| August | 21°C | 24°C | 27°C |
| September | 21°C | 23°C | 26°C |
| October | 13°C | 18°C | 23°C |
| November | 4°C | 9°C | 13°C |
| December | 1°C | 5°C | 8°C |
Salt Fork Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Salt Fork Lake: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
Location & Local Information
Salt Fork Lake in eastern Ohio is a shallow-to-moderately deep reservoir whose surface temperatures fluctuate with the seasons. Typical winter readings near the surface often sit around 32–40°F (0–4°C), with ice forming some years. In spring the lake warms to roughly 40–65°F (4–18°C) as air temperatures rise. By summer the surface commonly reaches about 70–80°F (21–27°C) and can briefly exceed that during heat waves, while deeper water remains noticeably cooler. Autumn sees a steady decline, with temperatures generally in the 50–70°F (10–21°C) range until ice begins to reform.
Swimming is permitted at Salt Fork’s designated beach areas and is a common recreational activity in summer when surface temperatures are warmest. Lifeguards and seasonal beach hours may be provided during peak months, but visitors should use only marked swimming zones because the lake supports boating and variable depths that can create hazards. Water quality or algae advisories occasionally close swimming areas, so checking current park notices before entering the water is advisable. The seasonal temperature ranges influence comfort and hypothermia risk, so swimmers should be cautious outside mid-summer warmth.