Wallowa Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Wallowa Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Wallowa Lake today is 3.8°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
❌ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges less than 41°F (5°C). Such water is extremely cold and not recommended for swimming without proper preparation. In these conditions, the risk of hypothermia is very high, and prolonged exposure to the water can be hazardous to your health. If you decide to swim, it is important to have the appropriate gear, such as a wetsuit. Typically, only experienced swimmers or those who practice winter swimming venture into such waters. 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 26 | 8.1°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 27 | 7.5°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 28 | 7.8°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 29 | 7.3°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 30 | 7.3°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 31 | 7.1°C | 15.0°C | |
| NOV 1 | 7.2°C | 8.4°C | |
| NOV 2 | 3.8°C | 8.4°C | |
| NOV 3 | 8.4°C | 4.0°C | |
| NOV 4 | 8.4°C | 4.3°C | |
| NOV 5 | 8.4°C | 4.5°C | |
| NOV 6 | 8.4°C | 4.7°C | |
| NOV 7 | 8.4°C | 5.0°C | |
| NOV 8 | 8.4°C | 5.2°C | |
| NOV 9 | 8.4°C | 5.4°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 | 4°C |
| February | 1°C | 4°C | 7°C |
| March | 3°C | 7°C | 10°C |
| April | 5°C | 9°C | 13°C |
| May | 8°C | 15°C | 21°C |
| June | 12°C | 17°C | 22°C |
| July | 14°C | 22°C | 29°C |
| August | 19°C | 25°C | 30°C |
| September | 17°C | 22°C | 26°C |
| October | 11°C | 15°C | 19°C |
| November | 4°C | 8°C | 12°C |
| December | 2°C | 6°C | 8°C |
Wallowa Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Wallowa Lake: Weather Forecast
November 3
November 4
November 5
November 6
November 7
Location & Local Information
Wallowa Lake in northeastern Oregon is an alpine, glacially formed lake that tends to have cool water year-round. Surface temperatures vary widely with the seasons and weather. In winter the lake commonly approaches freezing, around 32–39°F (0–4°C) and can hold ice. In spring temperatures climb slowly, often ranging from roughly 34–50°F (1–10°C). Peak surface warmth usually occurs in July and August, when water commonly reaches about 55–68°F (13–20°C) and on unusually warm, calm days might approach 70°F (21°C). By fall the surface cools again to roughly 40–55°F (4–13°C). Deeper water remains substantially colder than the surface, and wind or runoff can produce rapid changes in local temperature.
Swimming is allowed and the lake has public beaches and recreational areas, but the cold temperatures are an important consideration. Because the water stays relatively chilly even in summer, swimmers can experience cold-shock or quick loss of body heat, so brief dips or the use of wetsuits are common for longer swims. Lifeguard presence is seasonal and conditions such as weather, wind and runoff can affect safety, so visitors are advised to exercise caution, swim with companions and follow posted guidance at park facilities.