Turlock Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Turlock Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Turlock Lake today is 16°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| NOV 6 | 16.2°C | 16.0°C | |
| NOV 7 | 16.7°C | 16.0°C | |
| NOV 8 | 16.2°C | 16.0°C | |
| NOV 9 | 15.9°C | 16.0°C | |
| NOV 10 | 15.7°C | 16.0°C | |
| NOV 11 | 16.1°C | 16.0°C | |
| NOV 12 | 15.7°C | 16.0°C | |
| NOV 13 | 16.0°C | 16.0°C | |
| NOV 14 | 16.0°C | 16.0°C | |
| NOV 15 | 16.0°C | 16.0°C | |
| NOV 16 | 16.0°C | 16.0°C | |
| NOV 17 | 16.0°C | 16.0°C | |
| NOV 18 | 16.0°C | 16.0°C | |
| NOV 19 | 16.0°C | 16.0°C | |
| NOV 20 | 16.0°C | 16.0°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 | 6°C | 9°C | 13°C |
| February | 8°C | 11°C | 14°C |
| March | 10°C | 15°C | 20°C |
| April | 15°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| May | 15°C | 19°C | 24°C |
| June | 19°C | 23°C | 27°C |
| July | 20°C | 24°C | 29°C |
| August | 19°C | 24°C | 30°C |
| September | 19°C | 23°C | 27°C |
| October | 16°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| November | 12°C | 16°C | 20°C |
| December | 9°C | 12°C | 15°C |
Turlock Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Turlock Lake: Weather Forecast
November 14
November 15
November 16
November 17
November 18
Location & Local Information
Turlock Lake, a reservoir in California’s Central Valley, experiences noticeable seasonal swings in surface temperature. In winter the water commonly sits in the mid‑40s to mid‑50s °F (about 7–13 °C), and in spring it warms to roughly 50–65 °F (10–18 °C). Peak summer surface temperatures often reach the low to mid‑70s up to the low‑80s °F (approximately 21–29 °C) in warm years, while fall usually sees a gradual cooling into the 60s–70s °F range (16–24 °C). These figures are general surface averages; deeper water stays colder year‑round and temperatures can vary with weather, inflow, and reservoir level.
Swimming at Turlock Lake is possible but comes with caveats. There are areas where people swim and boat, but the lake typically lacks lifeguards and has hazards such as cold water layers, sudden drop‑offs, boat traffic, and occasional changes in flow related to irrigation and reservoir operations. Water quality can also fluctuate, so local rules, posted signs, and any seasonal advisories should be checked before entering. For safety, recreational swimmers are advised to stay in designated day‑use areas, wear a life jacket when near boats, and be mindful of cold shock and currents even on warm days.