Scituate Reservoir — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Scituate Reservoir, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Scituate Reservoir today is 16.4°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 | 18.5°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 6 | 18.1°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 7 | 18.7°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 8 | 18.0°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 9 | 17.4°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 10 | 17.4°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 11 | 17.1°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 17.3°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 13 | 15.5°C | 16.4°C | |
| OCT 14 | 15.5°C | 16.3°C | |
| OCT 15 | 15.5°C | 16.3°C | |
| OCT 16 | 15.5°C | 16.2°C | |
| OCT 17 | 15.5°C | 16.2°C | |
| OCT 18 | 15.5°C | 16.1°C | |
| OCT 19 | 15.5°C | 16.1°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 | 2°C | 4°C |
| February | 0°C | 2°C | 4°C |
| March | 0°C | 4°C | 8°C |
| April | 5°C | 10°C | 15°C |
| May | 11°C | 16°C | 21°C |
| June | 13°C | 18°C | 22°C |
| July | 21°C | 26°C | 31°C |
| August | 20°C | 25°C | 29°C |
| September | 17°C | 23°C | 29°C |
| October | 12°C | 16°C | 19°C |
| November | 4°C | 8°C | 12°C |
| December | 0°C | 3°C | 5°C |
Scituate Reservoir: Water Temperature by Location
Scituate Reservoir: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
October 18
Location & Local Information
The Scituate Reservoir, Rhode Island’s primary municipal drinking water source, experiences the typical seasonal temperature swings of a temperate northeastern impoundment. Surface temperatures in winter often hover near freezing, roughly 32–40°F (0–4°C), and significant ice cover can develop in sustained cold. In spring the water commonly warms from about 40–60°F (4–16°C) as air temperatures rise and stratification begins. By summer, surface readings frequently reach roughly 65–75°F (18–24°C) on warm afternoons, though deeper layers remain considerably cooler. During autumn the surface cools back toward about 50–65°F (10–18°C) as turnover breaks down stratification. Actual temperatures vary by depth, location within the reservoir, recent weather, and time of day.
Swimming in the Scituate Reservoir is not permitted. Because the lake functions as a public drinking water supply, authorities restrict direct-contact recreation to protect water quality and public health; prohibitions on swimming reduce the risk of contamination and simplify treatment requirements. Access and other activities are managed under specific regulations, and permitted uses are generally limited to those that minimize pollutant inputs and invasive species risk. Visitors should consult local management for current rules and allowed recreational options.