Upper Priest Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Upper Priest Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Upper Priest Lake today is 14.6°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| SEP 14 | 17.7°C | 18.1°C | |
| SEP 15 | 16.7°C | 18.1°C | |
| SEP 16 | 16.1°C | 18.1°C | |
| SEP 17 | 15.6°C | 18.1°C | |
| SEP 18 | 15.5°C | 18.1°C | |
| SEP 19 | 15.1°C | 18.1°C | |
| SEP 20 | 13.9°C | 18.1°C | |
| SEP 21 | 14.6°C | 18.1°C | |
| SEP 22 | 18.1°C | 14.8°C | |
| SEP 23 | 18.1°C | 15.0°C | |
| SEP 24 | 18.1°C | 15.1°C | |
| SEP 25 | 18.1°C | 15.3°C | |
| SEP 26 | 18.1°C | 15.5°C | |
| SEP 27 | 18.1°C | 15.7°C | |
| SEP 28 | 18.1°C | 15.8°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 | 1°C | 3°C | 6°C |
| March | 1°C | 4°C | 7°C |
| April | 0°C | 4°C | 9°C |
| May | 4°C | 10°C | 16°C |
| June | 9°C | 13°C | 18°C |
| July | 15°C | 20°C | 25°C |
| August | 18°C | 21°C | 24°C |
| September | 14°C | 18°C | 23°C |
| October | 9°C | 12°C | 15°C |
| November | 5°C | 7°C | 10°C |
| December | 1°C | 4°C | 6°C |
Upper Priest Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Upper Priest Lake: Weather Forecast
September 22
September 23
September 24
September 25
September 26
Location & Local Information
Upper Priest Lake is a high-elevation, forest-fringed body of water that stays cool through much of the year. In winter the surface commonly reaches near freezing, around 32°F (0°C) and often 39°F (4°C) or lower under ice. Spring and early summer see gradual warming, roughly 35–50°F (2–10°C) as snowmelt feeds the lake. Peak summer surface temperatures are modest by lowland standards, typically in the mid-50s to upper-60s Fahrenheit (about 13–20°C) on warm afternoons. By autumn the water cools again, generally falling into the 40–55°F range (4–13°C) before ice formation.
Swimming is permitted in Upper Priest Lake because it is public water within a natural recreation area, but opportunities are limited by the lake’s cold temperatures, limited developed beach facilities, and remote access. Brief dips are common in summer when surface temperatures are warmest, yet prolonged immersion risks hypothermia even on warm days. There are no lifeguards, and entry points can be rocky or steep, so visitors should exercise caution, wear appropriate gear, and monitor conditions. For safer enjoyment, many people choose short swims, wetsuits, or watercraft-based access rather than extended open-water swimming.