South Bay — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in South Bay, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in South Bay today is 16.3°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 5 | 17.4°C | 13.5°C | |
| OCT 6 | 17.6°C | 13.5°C | |
| OCT 7 | 17.3°C | 13.5°C | |
| OCT 8 | 17.2°C | 13.5°C | |
| OCT 9 | 16.9°C | 13.5°C | |
| OCT 10 | 16.9°C | 13.5°C | |
| OCT 11 | 16.5°C | 13.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 16.2°C | 13.5°C | |
| OCT 13 | 13.5°C | 16.2°C | |
| OCT 14 | 13.5°C | 16.0°C | |
| OCT 15 | 13.5°C | 15.9°C | |
| OCT 16 | 13.5°C | 15.7°C | |
| OCT 17 | 13.5°C | 15.6°C | |
| OCT 18 | 13.5°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 19 | 13.5°C | 15.3°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 | 4°C | 7°C |
| March | 4°C | 9°C | 15°C |
| April | 5°C | 10°C | 15°C |
| May | 9°C | 15°C | 22°C |
| June | 15°C | 21°C | 26°C |
| July | 20°C | 24°C | 29°C |
| August | 20°C | 25°C | 30°C |
| September | 17°C | 22°C | 27°C |
| October | 8°C | 14°C | 19°C |
| November | 3°C | 8°C | 12°C |
| December | 0°C | 4°C | 8°C |
South Bay: Water Temperature by Location
South Bay: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
Location & Local Information
The Great Salt Lake, particularly its southern expanse known as the South Bay, offers a distinctive swimming experience, though it is not a typical recreational lake. Due to the Great Salt Lake's terminal nature and high salinity—significantly saltier than the ocean—the water remains dense and buoyant, allowing swimmers to float effortlessly. Water temperatures in the South Bay exhibit substantial seasonal fluctuation. In the peak summer months of July and August, surface temperatures generally warm up into the mid-70s to low-80s °F (around 24 to 29 °C). However, the lake cools quickly, with winter temperatures dropping near freezing, typically ranging from 32 to 40 °F (0 to 4 °C) from December through February.
Swimming is generally permitted in the South Bay, with designated access points like the popular beach at Antelope Island State Park. The extreme salinity is the primary factor influencing swimming; it prevents the existence of fish but supports brine shrimp and brine flies. Swimmers should be aware that the salt can irritate the eyes and skin, and a freshwater rinse is highly recommended immediately after exiting the water. While the temperature is comfortable for swimming in mid-summer, the experience is more about floating and enjoying the unique environment rather than traditional swimming or diving, given the shallow depths and the need to protect against the abrasive salt.