Schwatka Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Schwatka Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Schwatka Lake today is 4.3°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
❌ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges less than 41°F (5°C). Such water is extremely cold and not recommended for swimming without proper preparation. In these conditions, the risk of hypothermia is very high, and prolonged exposure to the water can be hazardous to your health. If you decide to swim, it is important to have the appropriate gear, such as a wetsuit. Typically, only experienced swimmers or those who practice winter swimming venture into such waters. 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 | 5.5°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 6 | 5.8°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 7 | 5.6°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 8 | 5.6°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 9 | 5.4°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 10 | 4.9°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 11 | 4.7°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 12 | 4.5°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 13 | 12.0°C | 4.7°C | |
| OCT 14 | 12.0°C | 5.1°C | |
| OCT 15 | 12.0°C | 5.5°C | |
| OCT 16 | 12.0°C | 5.8°C | |
| OCT 17 | 12.0°C | 6.2°C | |
| OCT 18 | 12.0°C | 6.6°C | |
| OCT 19 | 12.0°C | 7.0°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 | 0°C | 3°C | 4°C |
| February | 0°C | 3°C | 4°C |
| March | 0°C | 3°C | 5°C |
| April | 0°C | 5°C | 11°C |
| May | 0°C | 8°C | 15°C |
| June | 4°C | 11°C | 18°C |
| July | 9°C | 16°C | 23°C |
| August | 8°C | 16°C | 24°C |
| September | 8°C | 14°C | 20°C |
| October | 7°C | 12°C | 16°C |
| November | 0°C | 6°C | 11°C |
| December | 0°C | 3°C | 6°C |
Schwatka Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Schwatka Lake: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
Location & Local Information
Schwatka Lake, located just south of Whitehorse in Yukon, is a man-made reservoir on the Yukon River created by the Schwatka Dam. Surrounded by mountains and boreal forest, the lake remains cool throughout most of the year due to its high latitude and inflow from cold upstream waters. In early spring, after the ice melts in May, surface temperatures are typically around 37–43°F (3–6°C). By late May and June, the lake warms slightly to about 46–54°F (8–12°C). During midsummer, from July through August, surface temperatures in sheltered areas may reach 57–63°F (14–17°C), while deeper sections remain several degrees colder. As autumn arrives, the lake cools again below 50°F (10°C) by late September, leading to early ice formation as winter approaches.
Swimming in Schwatka Lake is allowed but generally limited due to the cold water and occasional strong currents caused by dam operations. Even in summer, the water feels brisk, and extended swimming can be uncomfortable without proper gear. However, on warm days, locals and visitors sometimes enjoy short swims or wading along the shoreline near parks and boat launches. The lake is better suited for kayaking, paddleboarding, and scenic enjoyment than for regular swimming, though brief dips in midsummer can be refreshing for those accustomed to cold water.