Shawnigan Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Shawnigan Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Shawnigan Lake today is 13.5°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 54°F (12°C) to 60°F (15°C). The water is significantly warmer, and swimming becomes possible for most people. However, caution may still be required for prolonged stays in the water, as extended exposure can cause discomfort. This is a suitable temperature range for short swims and for those accustomed to cooler water. For more comfortable swimming, it is recommended to use proper gear. 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 | 14.6°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 6 | 15.0°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 7 | 14.6°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 8 | 13.9°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 9 | 14.3°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 10 | 14.1°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 11 | 14.2°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 13.7°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 13 | 15.5°C | 13.6°C | |
| OCT 14 | 15.5°C | 13.7°C | |
| OCT 15 | 15.5°C | 13.8°C | |
| OCT 16 | 15.5°C | 13.9°C | |
| OCT 17 | 15.5°C | 14.0°C | |
| OCT 18 | 15.5°C | 14.1°C | |
| OCT 19 | 15.5°C | 14.2°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 | 0°C | 3°C | 6°C |
| February | 2°C | 5°C | 8°C |
| March | 4°C | 8°C | 11°C |
| April | 5°C | 10°C | 15°C |
| May | 11°C | 16°C | 21°C |
| June | 13°C | 19°C | 24°C |
| July | 15°C | 23°C | 31°C |
| August | 18°C | 24°C | 30°C |
| September | 16°C | 21°C | 26°C |
| October | 11°C | 16°C | 20°C |
| November | 6°C | 10°C | 14°C |
| December | 4°C | 7°C | 9°C |
Shawnigan Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Shawnigan Lake: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
Location & Local Information
Quick note: Shawnigan Lake is actually on Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada, not in Washington state. The lake’s water follows the typical temperate coastal pattern: surface temperatures in spring commonly range from about 45–60°F (7–16°C), rise in summer to roughly 60–72°F (15–22°C) during warm spells, drop in autumn back toward 50–60°F (10–16°C), and can fall to near freezing in winter, about 34–45°F (1–7°C). Deeper layers remain significantly colder year-round and a thermal stratification develops in summer, so temperatures can vary a lot with depth and location on the lake.
Swimming is a regular recreational activity at Shawnigan Lake, particularly in the warmer months when surface temperatures make casual swimming comfortable. Public access points and beaches encourage swimming and boating, but participation is seasonal because colder water increases risk of cold shock and hypothermia. Local authorities periodically issue water-quality advisories—for example, after heavy rain or during algal blooms—so swimmers are advised to check recent water-quality information and any posted warnings before entering the lake. Lifeguard coverage is limited, so standard safety precautions, including swimming with others and wearing flotation when appropriate, are recommended.