Wheeler Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Wheeler Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Wheeler Lake today is 21.8°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| OCT 5 | 24.4°C | 21.0°C | |
| OCT 6 | 23.9°C | 21.0°C | |
| OCT 7 | 23.8°C | 21.0°C | |
| OCT 8 | 23.6°C | 21.0°C | |
| OCT 9 | 23.4°C | 21.0°C | |
| OCT 10 | 23.2°C | 21.0°C | |
| OCT 11 | 22.7°C | 21.0°C | |
| OCT 12 | 22.6°C | 21.0°C | |
| OCT 13 | 21.0°C | 21.8°C | |
| OCT 14 | 21.0°C | 21.7°C | |
| OCT 15 | 21.0°C | 21.7°C | |
| OCT 16 | 21.0°C | 21.6°C | |
| OCT 17 | 21.0°C | 21.6°C | |
| OCT 18 | 21.0°C | 21.6°C | |
| OCT 19 | 21.0°C | 21.5°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 | 6°C | 12°C | 18°C |
| February | 5°C | 12°C | 18°C |
| March | 8°C | 14°C | 19°C |
| April | 12°C | 17°C | 23°C |
| May | 14°C | 20°C | 26°C |
| June | 14°C | 21°C | 28°C |
| July | 23°C | 29°C | 34°C |
| August | 15°C | 22°C | 30°C |
| September | 23°C | 26°C | 29°C |
| October | 18°C | 21°C | 24°C |
| November | 11°C | 15°C | 19°C |
| December | 6°C | 12°C | 18°C |
Wheeler Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Wheeler Lake: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
October 18
Location & Local Information
Wheeler Lake, the second-largest lake in Alabama, is a massive reservoir on the Tennessee River in the northern part of the state. Its water temperature shifts dramatically with the seasons. During the height of summer, from June through September, the surface water warms to comfortable swimming temperatures, typically ranging from 26∘C to 32∘C (79∘F to 90∘F). Conversely, the winter months see a significant drop in temperature. While data varies, temperatures generally cool to the 4∘C to 11∘C (40∘F to 52∘F) range, which makes the water unsuitable for casual swimming.
Swimming is generally permitted in Wheeler Lake, as the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) manages the nearly 68,000-acre reservoir for diverse recreation. The most notable exception is the clear presence of designated swimming areas, such as the popular Sandy Beach at Joe Wheeler State Park, which explicitly welcomes swimmers. However, outside of these established locations, swimming is typically at one's own risk. Caution is essential because the lake is a major navigation route, meaning heavy boat traffic is common. Furthermore, strong currents exist near the Wheeler Dam and lock, and unseen submerged hazards are typical of large, deep reservoirs.