Smith Mountain Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Smith Mountain Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Smith Mountain Lake today is 19.8°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 5 | 22.2°C | 21.0°C | |
| OCT 6 | 21.4°C | 21.0°C | |
| OCT 7 | 21.9°C | 21.0°C | |
| OCT 8 | 21.1°C | 21.0°C | |
| OCT 9 | 20.5°C | 21.0°C | |
| OCT 10 | 20.3°C | 21.0°C | |
| OCT 11 | 21.4°C | 21.0°C | |
| OCT 12 | 20.4°C | 21.0°C | |
| OCT 13 | 21.0°C | 19.9°C | |
| OCT 14 | 21.0°C | 19.9°C | |
| OCT 15 | 21.0°C | 20.0°C | |
| OCT 16 | 21.0°C | 20.0°C | |
| OCT 17 | 21.0°C | 20.1°C | |
| OCT 18 | 21.0°C | 20.2°C | |
| OCT 19 | 21.0°C | 20.2°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 | 2°C | 10°C | 17°C |
| February | 2°C | 11°C | 19°C |
| March | 6°C | 13°C | 19°C |
| April | 10°C | 18°C | 25°C |
| May | 16°C | 21°C | 26°C |
| June | 17°C | 22°C | 27°C |
| July | 23°C | 28°C | 32°C |
| August | 22°C | 26°C | 30°C |
| September | 21°C | 26°C | 30°C |
| October | 16°C | 21°C | 26°C |
| November | 11°C | 17°C | 22°C |
| December | 4°C | 10°C | 15°C |
Smith Mountain Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Smith Mountain Lake: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
Location & Local Information
Smith Mountain Lake’s surface water temperatures vary considerably through the year. In summer the shallows often warm to the mid-70s to low-80s °F (about 24–29 °C), making surface swimming comfortable on warm days. In spring the lake generally runs cooler as it stratifies, with surface readings commonly in the mid-40s to mid-60s °F (roughly 7–18 °C). Fall sees a gradual cooling back into the 50s to low-70s °F (about 13–21 °C) as the surface mixes, and winter surface temperatures can drop into the low 30s to mid-40s °F (around 1–7 °C) in colder stretches. Deeper water stays significantly colder year-round, and temperature can change quickly with wind, rainfall and water releases from the dam.
Swimming is allowed and is a common recreational use of the reservoir, with public beaches, marinas and private shorelines used for bathing and wading. Authorities and property owners expect swimmers to observe safety precautions because of boat traffic, changing water levels, hidden drop-offs and colder water at depth; occasional advisories related to water quality or unusual conditions may temporarily restrict swimming. In short, the lake is suitable for swimming mainly in warmer months, while spring and winter conditions warrant caution due to colder temperatures and safety factors.