Shasta Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Shasta Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Shasta Lake today is 18.3°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 65°F (18°C) to 68°F (20°C). This is already quite warm water, which is ideal for most people. Swimming becomes comfortable, and prolonged stays in the water do not cause discomfort. This temperature is perfect for family trips and for those who prefer warmer water. It is also comfortable for water sports such as surfing or swimming. 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 15 | 18.5°C | 18.0°C | |
| OCT 16 | 17.7°C | 18.0°C | |
| OCT 17 | 18.0°C | 18.0°C | |
| OCT 18 | 18.9°C | 18.0°C | |
| OCT 19 | 19.0°C | 18.0°C | |
| OCT 20 | 18.8°C | 18.0°C | |
| OCT 21 | 19.2°C | 18.0°C | |
| OCT 22 | 17.7°C | 18.0°C | |
| OCT 23 | 18.0°C | 18.3°C | |
| OCT 24 | 18.0°C | 18.3°C | |
| OCT 25 | 18.0°C | 18.3°C | |
| OCT 26 | 18.0°C | 18.2°C | |
| OCT 27 | 18.0°C | 18.2°C | |
| OCT 28 | 18.0°C | 18.2°C | |
| OCT 29 | 18.0°C | 18.2°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 | 8°C | 12°C |
| February | 6°C | 9°C | 11°C |
| March | 5°C | 11°C | 17°C |
| April | 9°C | 13°C | 17°C |
| May | 13°C | 18°C | 22°C |
| June | 18°C | 22°C | 26°C |
| July | 22°C | 26°C | 30°C |
| August | 22°C | 26°C | 31°C |
| September | 20°C | 24°C | 27°C |
| October | 14°C | 18°C | 22°C |
| November | 11°C | 15°C | 19°C |
| December | 6°C | 9°C | 12°C |
Shasta Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Shasta Lake: Weather Forecast
October 23
October 24
October 25
October 26
October 27
October 28
Location & Local Information
Shasta Lake is a large reservoir in northern California whose surface water temperatures shift substantially with the seasons and with depth. In winter the surface is typically cool, often about 40–55°F (4–13°C). Spring brings gradual warming to roughly 50–65°F (10–18°C). Peak summer surface readings commonly reach about 68–78°F (20–26°C), and in shallow, sheltered coves can occasionally climb toward the low 80s°F (around 27–28°C) on very hot days. In autumn the surface usually cools back into the 60s–70s°F range (16–21°C). Because Shasta is a deep reservoir, deeper water remains much colder year‑round due to thermal stratification, so temperatures can drop sharply below the surface.
Swimming is allowed at Shasta Lake because it is managed for recreation, and many marinas, campgrounds, and shoreline areas are used for bathing and wading. However, swimmers should be cautious: cold water and sudden temperature changes can cause cold‑water shock or hypothermia, boating traffic and submerged hazards create safety risks, and many shore sites do not have lifeguards. Water quality and local conditions (such as algae blooms or fluctuating levels) also vary, so checking current advisories and using flotation devices, swimming near shore, and practicing boat‑aware behavior are recommended.