Waconda Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Waconda Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Waconda Lake today is 21.5°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
✅ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 68°F (20°C) to 74°F (23°C). The water is warm and pleasant for swimming, and in this range, one can stay in the water for extended periods without the risk of hypothermia. This is the ideal temperature for relaxation, swimming, and water sports. Families with children, as well as outdoor enthusiasts, will enjoy swimming and time spent in the water. For most people, this is the optimal temperature for a comfortable beach experience. 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 | 23.0°C | 23.9°C | |
| SEP 15 | 22.4°C | 23.9°C | |
| SEP 16 | 23.6°C | 23.9°C | |
| SEP 17 | 21.5°C | 23.9°C | |
| SEP 18 | 21.3°C | 23.9°C | |
| SEP 19 | 20.7°C | 23.9°C | |
| SEP 20 | 21.7°C | 23.9°C | |
| SEP 21 | 21.5°C | 23.9°C | |
| SEP 22 | 23.9°C | 21.6°C | |
| SEP 23 | 23.9°C | 21.7°C | |
| SEP 24 | 23.9°C | 21.9°C | |
| SEP 25 | 23.9°C | 22.0°C | |
| SEP 26 | 23.9°C | 22.1°C | |
| SEP 27 | 23.9°C | 22.2°C | |
| SEP 28 | 23.9°C | 22.3°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 | 2°C | 5°C |
| February | 0°C | 2°C | 5°C |
| March | 0°C | 7°C | 14°C |
| April | 8°C | 13°C | 18°C |
| May | 12°C | 17°C | 23°C |
| June | 19°C | 22°C | 25°C |
| July | 23°C | 26°C | 30°C |
| August | 23°C | 27°C | 31°C |
| September | 20°C | 24°C | 28°C |
| October | 14°C | 18°C | 22°C |
| November | 7°C | 12°C | 17°C |
| December | 2°C | 4°C | 7°C |
Waconda Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Waconda Lake: Weather Forecast
September 21
September 22
September 23
September 24
September 25
Location & Local Information
Waconda Lake (Glen Elder Reservoir) experiences marked seasonal variation in surface water temperature. In spring the surface typically rises from roughly 45–65°F (7–18°C) as inflows and air temperatures warm. Summer surface temperatures commonly reach about 70–85°F (21–29°C) on warm afternoons, though deeper water remains cooler. During autumn the lake cools back toward roughly 50–70°F (10–21°C) depending on early or late fall conditions. In winter the surface often approaches near-freezing to the low 40s, roughly 32–45°F (0–7°C), especially when cold air and ice formation occur in sheltered areas. Water temperature can vary locally with depth, wind, and reservoir releases, so swimmers should expect cooler pockets even in summer.
Swimming is permitted in recreational areas around the lake, particularly at park-managed shorelines, because the reservoir is designated for multiple public uses including bathing and boating. However, access and safety depend on conditions: there are often no lifeguards on duty, water levels and submerged hazards can shift with reservoir operations, and occasional algal or water-quality advisories may limit swimming. For those planning to swim, summertime afternoons offer the warmest surface temperatures, but checking current park notices and exercising caution around variable depths and cold pockets is recommended.