San Carlos Reservoir — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in San Carlos Reservoir, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in San Carlos Reservoir today is 24°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
✅ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 75°F (23°C) to 79°F (26°C). This is a very comfortable temperature for swimming, and many people can enjoy prolonged stays in the water without feeling cold. The water is pleasantly warm, making it ideal for relaxation and water sports. This temperature range is particularly popular among tourists, as it combines comfort and safety for health. 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 | 24.1°C | 21.0°C | |
| OCT 6 | 24.5°C | 21.0°C | |
| OCT 7 | 24.3°C | 21.0°C | |
| OCT 8 | 23.6°C | 21.0°C | |
| OCT 9 | 23.8°C | 21.0°C | |
| OCT 10 | 23.6°C | 21.0°C | |
| OCT 11 | 23.8°C | 21.0°C | |
| OCT 12 | 23.9°C | 21.0°C | |
| OCT 13 | 21.0°C | 23.9°C | |
| OCT 14 | 21.0°C | 23.7°C | |
| OCT 15 | 21.0°C | 23.6°C | |
| OCT 16 | 21.0°C | 23.4°C | |
| OCT 17 | 21.0°C | 23.3°C | |
| OCT 18 | 21.0°C | 23.1°C | |
| OCT 19 | 21.0°C | 23.0°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 | 4°C | 9°C | 15°C |
| February | 6°C | 10°C | 15°C |
| March | 11°C | 17°C | 23°C |
| April | 14°C | 19°C | 24°C |
| May | 16°C | 22°C | 29°C |
| June | 21°C | 26°C | 31°C |
| July | 18°C | 26°C | 34°C |
| August | 24°C | 29°C | 34°C |
| September | 21°C | 27°C | 32°C |
| October | 17°C | 21°C | 25°C |
| November | 13°C | 18°C | 22°C |
| December | 7°C | 11°C | 15°C |
San Carlos Reservoir: Water Temperature by Location
San Carlos Reservoir: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
Location & Local Information
San Carlos Reservoir, located in east-central Arizona within the San Carlos Apache Reservation, is one of the state’s larger inland lakes, surrounded by desert and rolling hills. Because of its mid-elevation position, the lake’s water temperature changes noticeably through the seasons. During winter, surface temperatures generally range from 46 to 54°F (8–12°C), cool but rarely near freezing. As spring advances, the lake warms steadily, reaching 63–72°F (17–22°C) by May. In summer, San Carlos Reservoir reaches its warmest period, with surface temperatures typically between 80 and 86°F (27–30°C) in July and August. By autumn, the water cools gradually to around 65–72°F (18–22°C), staying mild and comfortable for recreation until late October.
Swimming is allowed at San Carlos Reservoir, though it is less developed for recreational swimming than some other Arizona lakes. The warm summer water makes it suitable for swimming, wading, and boating, especially along calm shoreline areas. Visitors should note that water levels can fluctuate significantly due to irrigation demands and seasonal rainfall, which may affect access points. While there are no designated swimming beaches or lifeguards, swimming is safe in most areas when conditions are stable. The combination of warm water, scenic surroundings, and relative seclusion makes San Carlos Reservoir appealing for those seeking a quiet swimming experience in a natural desert setting.