Skaneateles Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Skaneateles Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Skaneateles Lake today is 15.3°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 6 | 17.3°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 7 | 17.3°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 8 | 16.2°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 9 | 15.8°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 10 | 16.1°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 11 | 15.8°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 14.9°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 13 | 15.3°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 14 | 15.5°C | 15.3°C | |
| OCT 15 | 15.5°C | 15.3°C | |
| OCT 16 | 15.5°C | 15.3°C | |
| OCT 17 | 15.5°C | 15.3°C | |
| OCT 18 | 15.5°C | 15.4°C | |
| OCT 19 | 15.5°C | 15.4°C | |
| OCT 20 | 15.5°C | 15.4°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 | 5°C |
| February | 0°C | 1°C | 4°C |
| March | 0°C | 1°C | 4°C |
| April | 2°C | 6°C | 11°C |
| May | 7°C | 12°C | 18°C |
| June | 14°C | 18°C | 22°C |
| July | 21°C | 26°C | 30°C |
| August | 21°C | 25°C | 29°C |
| September | 17°C | 22°C | 27°C |
| October | 13°C | 16°C | 18°C |
| November | 5°C | 10°C | 14°C |
| December | 0°C | 4°C | 6°C |
Skaneateles Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Skaneateles Lake: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
October 18
Location & Local Information
Skaneateles Lake, one of New York’s Finger Lakes, is relatively deep and spring-fed, which strongly influences its temperature profile. In winter the surface often approaches freezing, roughly 32–39°F (0–4°C). Spring sees a gradual rise into the 40s and low 50s Fahrenheit (4–12°C) as the water mixes. By summer the shallow surface layer can warm to the 60s and sometimes low 70s °F (16–24°C) on sunny, calm days, though deeper water remains much colder year‑round and a sharp thermocline can develop. In autumn the surface cools again, typically dropping through the 50s into the 40s °F (10–4°C) before ice becomes possible in unusually cold winters.
Swimming is allowed at many points around the lake and is a common recreational activity because water quality is generally high and municipalities provide designated swimming areas. However, rules and access vary by shoreline owner and local ordinances, and swimmers should heed posted regulations and safety guidance. The lake’s cold water—even in summer—creates a risk of cold‑water shock and hypothermia, and its depth and limited visibility increase hazards for boaters and swimmers alike; therefore the warmest midsummer weeks are the safest time for open‑water swimming.