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 17.7°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| SEP 14 | 18.4°C | 16.0°C | |
| SEP 15 | 18.8°C | 16.0°C | |
| SEP 16 | 18.7°C | 16.0°C | |
| SEP 17 | 18.3°C | 16.0°C | |
| SEP 18 | 18.2°C | 16.0°C | |
| SEP 19 | 18.0°C | 16.0°C | |
| SEP 20 | 17.9°C | 16.0°C | |
| SEP 22 | 16.0°C | 17.6°C | |
| SEP 23 | 16.0°C | 17.5°C | |
| SEP 24 | 16.0°C | 17.4°C | |
| SEP 25 | 16.0°C | 17.4°C | |
| SEP 26 | 16.0°C | 17.3°C | |
| SEP 27 | 16.0°C | 17.2°C | |
| SEP 28 | 16.0°C | 17.1°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 | 3°C | 6°C |
| February | 0°C | 3°C | 6°C |
| March | 0°C | 4°C | 8°C |
| April | 0°C | 6°C | 12°C |
| May | 4°C | 10°C | 17°C |
| June | 7°C | 14°C | 18°C |
| July | 15°C | 18°C | 23°C |
| August | 17°C | 19°C | 24°C |
| September | 11°C | 16°C | 20°C |
| October | 7°C | 12°C | 16°C |
| November | 3°C | 6°C | 11°C |
| December | 0°C | 3°C | 7°C |
Shawnigan Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Shawnigan Lake: Weather Forecast
September 22
September 23
September 24
September 25
Location & Local Information
Shawnigan Lake, located on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, is a popular recreational lake known for its comparatively warm surface waters. The lake’s temperature experiences a significant seasonal swing. In the peak summer months, from July through August, the surface water typically warms up enough for comfortable swimming, generally reaching a high of 21∘C to 23∘C (70∘F to 73∘F), though deeper parts remain cold. In the winter, the water cools considerably, with temperatures dropping to the range of 4∘C to 10∘C (39∘F to 50∘F), and the lake rarely freezes over.
Swimming is widely permitted and very popular on Shawnigan Lake, as it is a key summer recreation spot for the Cowichan Valley. Several public parks facilitate water access, including West Shawnigan Lake Park and Shawnigan Wharf Park, the latter of which features a designated, enclosed swimming area. These specific areas confirm that swimming is an expected and welcomed activity. However, outside of these designated park areas, all swimming is at one's own risk. Swimmers should also be aware that, as a vital drinking water source, the lake is routinely monitored for water quality by health authorities, who may occasionally issue advisories against swimming due to elevated bacteria levels.