Swift Creek Reservoir — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Swift Creek Reservoir, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Swift Creek Reservoir 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 6 | 21.6°C | 19.0°C | |
| OCT 7 | 21.8°C | 19.0°C | |
| OCT 8 | 20.9°C | 19.0°C | |
| OCT 9 | 20.3°C | 19.0°C | |
| OCT 10 | 20.5°C | 19.0°C | |
| OCT 11 | 20.3°C | 19.0°C | |
| OCT 12 | 19.5°C | 19.0°C | |
| OCT 13 | 19.8°C | 19.0°C | |
| OCT 14 | 19.0°C | 19.8°C | |
| OCT 15 | 19.0°C | 19.7°C | |
| OCT 16 | 19.0°C | 19.7°C | |
| OCT 17 | 19.0°C | 19.6°C | |
| OCT 18 | 19.0°C | 19.6°C | |
| OCT 19 | 19.0°C | 19.6°C | |
| OCT 20 | 19.0°C | 19.5°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 | 1°C | 4°C | 8°C |
| February | 1°C | 4°C | 7°C |
| March | 2°C | 9°C | 16°C |
| April | 12°C | 15°C | 19°C |
| May | 15°C | 20°C | 26°C |
| June | 21°C | 26°C | 30°C |
| July | 24°C | 27°C | 31°C |
| August | 23°C | 28°C | 32°C |
| September | 22°C | 25°C | 29°C |
| October | 16°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| November | 9°C | 13°C | 16°C |
| December | 4°C | 7°C | 11°C |
Swift Creek Reservoir: Water Temperature by Location
Swift Creek Reservoir: Weather Forecast
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
Location & Local Information
Swift Creek Reservoir in Chesterfield County experiences typical mid-Atlantic seasonal temperature swings. Surface temperatures in winter commonly sit near freezing to the mid-40s Fahrenheit (about 0–7 °C), while spring sees a steady rise into the mid-40s to mid-60s °F (7–18 °C). In summer the reservoir’s surface often warms to roughly 70–85 °F (21–29 °C), occasionally higher during heat waves, and in autumn the water cools back through the 50s and 60s °F (10–20 °C). Deeper water remains noticeably cooler than the surface year-round, and stratification in summer can create sharp temperature differences with hypoxic or warmer surface layers. Warm late‑summer conditions can also favor algae and bacterial growth, which affect water clarity and quality.
Swimming in Swift Creek Reservoir is not permitted because the lake serves as a municipal drinking water supply and is managed to protect water quality and public safety. Restrictions are intended to limit contamination risks, protect treatment operations, and reduce hazards associated with boat traffic, variable depths, and submerged structures. Recreational use is generally limited to things like boating or fishing under county rules, with public swimming directed to designated pools or beaches where lifeguards, water quality monitoring, and facilities are provided.