Spanaway Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Spanaway Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Spanaway Lake today is 14.3°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 54°F (12°C) to 60°F (15°C). The water is significantly warmer, and swimming becomes possible for most people. However, caution may still be required for prolonged stays in the water, as extended exposure can cause discomfort. This is a suitable temperature range for short swims and for those accustomed to cooler water. For more comfortable swimming, it is recommended to use proper gear. 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 | 15.3°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 6 | 15.2°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 7 | 15.1°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 8 | 15.1°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 9 | 14.8°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 10 | 14.7°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 11 | 15.3°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 14.6°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 13 | 15.5°C | 14.4°C | |
| OCT 14 | 15.5°C | 14.4°C | |
| OCT 15 | 15.5°C | 14.5°C | |
| OCT 16 | 15.5°C | 14.5°C | |
| OCT 17 | 15.5°C | 14.6°C | |
| OCT 18 | 15.5°C | 14.7°C | |
| OCT 19 | 15.5°C | 14.7°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 | 4°C | 8°C |
| February | 3°C | 6°C | 8°C |
| March | 5°C | 8°C | 11°C |
| April | 7°C | 11°C | 15°C |
| May | 11°C | 17°C | 21°C |
| June | 13°C | 19°C | 24°C |
| July | 15°C | 23°C | 31°C |
| August | 19°C | 25°C | 30°C |
| September | 17°C | 22°C | 26°C |
| October | 11°C | 16°C | 20°C |
| November | 7°C | 11°C | 14°C |
| December | 4°C | 7°C | 9°C |
Spanaway Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Spanaway Lake: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
Location & Local Information
Spanaway Lake in Pierce County experiences noticeable seasonal changes in surface water temperature. In winter months the lake typically runs cold, often around 34–45°F (1–7°C). Spring brings gradual warming, with surface temperatures commonly rising into the mid-40s to low 60s°F (7–16°C) as runoff and air temperatures increase. Peak summer conditions usually produce the warmest water, frequently in the mid-60s to mid-70s°F (18–24°C) at the surface on warm, calm days. Fall sees a progressive cooling back toward the 50s–60s°F range (10–16°C) as daylight shortens and air temperatures fall. Local factors such as wind, depth variations, and seasonal algal activity can cause short-term variations in these ranges.
Swimming at Spanaway Lake is generally allowed at public access points and parks, though conditions and regulations can change. Because the lake is not subject to a blanket prohibition on swimming, people commonly swim there during warmer months, but they should do so at designated areas and observe posted notices. Water-quality advisories for bacterial counts or blue-green algal blooms can occasionally make swimming unsafe, and cold water even in late spring or early fall poses hypothermia risk. As with any inland lake, swimmers should be aware of shallow areas, underwater vegetation, boat traffic, and current advisories before entering the water.