Salton Sea Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Salton Sea Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Salton Sea Lake today is 34.4°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
✅ As of today, the minimum water temperature is above 82°F (28°C). This is very warm water, which may feel almost hot to most people. Swimming in such conditions is perfect for those seeking relaxation and comfort in the water. These waters are often preferred for relaxation in hot weather, as the water temperature does not cool the body significantly. However, it is important to remember that in such warm waters, caution is necessary, as prolonged exposure without rest can lead to overheating. 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 | 36.0°C | 31.0°C | |
| AUG 5 | 35.9°C | 31.0°C | |
| AUG 6 | 36.0°C | 31.0°C | |
| AUG 7 | 35.9°C | 31.0°C | |
| AUG 8 | 35.9°C | 31.0°C | |
| AUG 9 | 36.0°C | 31.0°C | |
| AUG 10 | 36.0°C | 31.0°C | |
| AUG 11 | 34.4°C | 31.0°C | |
| AUG 12 | 31.0°C | 34.2°C | |
| AUG 13 | 31.0°C | 34.1°C | |
| AUG 14 | 31.0°C | 33.9°C | |
| AUG 15 | 31.0°C | 33.7°C | |
| AUG 16 | 31.0°C | 33.6°C | |
| AUG 17 | 31.0°C | 33.4°C | |
| AUG 18 | 31.0°C | 33.2°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 | 5°C | 12°C | 20°C |
| February | 8°C | 14°C | 20°C |
| March | 14°C | 20°C | 26°C |
| April | 17°C | 21°C | 25°C |
| May | 16°C | 22°C | 29°C |
| June | 18°C | 24°C | 30°C |
| July | 26°C | 31°C | 36°C |
| August | 26°C | 31°C | 36°C |
| September | 25°C | 27°C | 30°C |
| October | 21°C | 24°C | 27°C |
| November | 17°C | 21°C | 24°C |
| December | 14°C | 17°C | 20°C |
Salton Sea Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Salton Sea Lake: Weather Forecast
August 12
August 13
August 14
August 15
August 16
Location & Local Information
The Salton Sea in Southern California is a shallow, saline inland lake whose surface temperatures fluctuate with the desert climate. In winter the water typically cools to roughly 50–65°F (10–18°C). Spring and fall bring milder conditions around 65–80°F (18–27°C). During summer, especially in prolonged heat spells, surface temperatures commonly climb to approximately 80–100°F (27–38°C), with occasional spots warming even more near shallow shorelines. These seasonal ranges reflect the lake’s shallow depth and high exposure to sun and air temperatures, so daytime measurements are often warmer than readings taken early morning or deeper down.
Swimming at the Salton Sea is not broadly prohibited, but it is generally discouraged by public-health observers and many local authorities. The water’s elevated salinity, frequent algal blooms, agricultural runoff and decaying fish and vegetation can create bacterial or toxin risks, unpleasant odors and skin or eye irritation. Shorelines are often unstable and lack lifeguards or maintained beach facilities, which raises safety concerns. Some people still wade or float in parts of the lake, taking advantage of the increased buoyancy from the salt, but most responsible guidance advises avoiding immersion when blooms, die-offs or visible pollution are present.