Saluda Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Saluda Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Saluda Lake today is 49°F.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| JAN 5 | 52°F | 48°F | |
| JAN 6 | 48°F | 48°F | |
| JAN 7 | 49°F | 48°F | |
| JAN 8 | 51°F | 48°F | |
| JAN 9 | 51°F | 48°F | |
| JAN 10 | 51°F | 48°F | |
| JAN 11 | 52°F | 48°F | |
| JAN 12 | 50°F | 48°F | |
| JAN 13 | 48°F | 49°F | |
| JAN 14 | 48°F | 49°F | |
| JAN 15 | 48°F | 49°F | |
| JAN 16 | 48°F | 49°F | |
| JAN 17 | 48°F | 49°F | |
| JAN 18 | 48°F | 49°F | |
| JAN 19 | 48°F | 49°F |
* 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 | 43°F | 48°F | 54°F |
| February | 45°F | 49°F | 54°F |
| March | 45°F | 53°F | 61°F |
| April | 55°F | 61°F | 66°F |
| May | 61°F | 67°F | 73°F |
| June | 64°F | 73°F | 81°F |
| July | 75°F | 80°F | 84°F |
| August | 72°F | 79°F | 86°F |
| September | 72°F | 78°F | 84°F |
| October | 63°F | 72°F | 81°F |
| November | 52°F | 60°F | 66°F |
| December | 45°F | 51°F | 59°F |
Saluda Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Saluda Lake: Weather Forecast
January 13
January 14
January 15
January 16
January 17
Location & Local Information
Saluda Lake in South Carolina follows the seasonal patterns typical of Southeastern reservoirs. In winter the surface water often cools to roughly 45–55°F (7–13°C). During spring it warms into the mid-50s to low-70s Fahrenheit (about 13–22°C) as air temperatures rise and sun exposure increases. Peak summer temperatures commonly reach about 75–85°F (24–29°C), which many swimmers find comfortable, and early fall typically sees a gradual decline into the 65–75°F range (18–24°C) before cooling more sharply late in the season. These values are approximate and can vary with weather, depth, and inflow conditions; shallow bays warm faster while deeper channels stay cooler.
Swimming at Saluda Lake is possible but is often informal and subject to local rules and safety considerations. There are few official guarded beaches on many recreational reservoirs, so most swimming is done from private shorelines or boats and typically at the swimmer’s own risk. Certain zones may be off-limits because of boating lanes, dam structures, submerged hazards, or water-quality issues after heavy rains, and there are no lifeguards on open water. In summer, water temperatures are most inviting; in winter, colder water increases hypothermia risk and generally makes swimming inadvisable.