Smithville Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Smithville Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Smithville Lake today is 17.8°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 5 | 20.4°C | 19.0°C | |
| OCT 6 | 19.6°C | 19.0°C | |
| OCT 7 | 18.9°C | 19.0°C | |
| OCT 8 | 18.4°C | 19.0°C | |
| OCT 9 | 18.5°C | 19.0°C | |
| OCT 10 | 18.3°C | 19.0°C | |
| OCT 11 | 18.3°C | 19.0°C | |
| OCT 12 | 18.6°C | 19.0°C | |
| OCT 13 | 19.0°C | 17.9°C | |
| OCT 14 | 19.0°C | 17.9°C | |
| OCT 15 | 19.0°C | 18.0°C | |
| OCT 16 | 19.0°C | 18.0°C | |
| OCT 17 | 19.0°C | 18.1°C | |
| OCT 18 | 19.0°C | 18.2°C | |
| OCT 19 | 19.0°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 | 0°C | 3°C | 5°C |
| February | 0°C | 2°C | 5°C |
| March | 0°C | 8°C | 16°C |
| April | 10°C | 15°C | 20°C |
| May | 14°C | 19°C | 25°C |
| June | 19°C | 23°C | 27°C |
| July | 26°C | 31°C | 35°C |
| August | 24°C | 28°C | 32°C |
| September | 22°C | 26°C | 29°C |
| October | 15°C | 19°C | 23°C |
| November | 7°C | 12°C | 16°C |
| December | 2°C | 5°C | 8°C |
Smithville Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Smithville Lake: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
Location & Local Information
Smithville Lake, a reservoir in northwestern Missouri, experiences typical Midwestern seasonal swings in water temperature. In spring (March–May) surface temperatures commonly rise from roughly the mid-40s to mid-60s °F (about 7–18 °C) as runoff and warming air temperatures take effect. Summer (June–August) brings the warmest conditions, with surface readings often between the low 70s and mid-80s °F (around 21–29 °C), which is when the lake feels most comfortable for recreational use. Autumn (September–November) sees a gradual cooling to roughly the mid-50s to low 70s °F (13–21 °C), while winter (December–February) can push surface temperatures down toward the low 30s to mid-40s °F (0–7 °C), with colder snaps producing near-freezing conditions in shallower spots.
Swimming at Smithville Lake is generally permitted in recreation areas managed around the reservoir, but it is typically confined to designated beaches or shorelines where safety signage and rules apply. The lake is primarily used for multiple purposes—flood control, water supply, boating and fishing—so open-water conditions can include boat traffic, varying depths and occasional currents near inlets. There are often no lifeguards on duty, and water quality or hazard advisories may be posted, so swimmers should follow posted regulations and exercise caution, especially outside the warm summer months when temperatures can be brisk.