Whiskeytown Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Whiskeytown Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Whiskeytown Lake today is 19.2°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 65°F (18°C) to 68°F (20°C). This is already quite warm water, which is ideal for most people. Swimming becomes comfortable, and prolonged stays in the water do not cause discomfort. This temperature is perfect for family trips and for those who prefer warmer water. It is also comfortable for water sports such as surfing or swimming. 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 13 | 21.0°C | 22.5°C | |
| SEP 14 | 21.0°C | 22.5°C | |
| SEP 15 | 20.0°C | 22.5°C | |
| SEP 16 | 19.9°C | 22.5°C | |
| SEP 17 | 19.7°C | 22.5°C | |
| SEP 18 | 19.6°C | 22.5°C | |
| SEP 19 | 19.6°C | 22.5°C | |
| SEP 20 | 19.2°C | 22.5°C | |
| SEP 21 | 22.5°C | 19.4°C | |
| SEP 22 | 22.5°C | 19.5°C | |
| SEP 23 | 22.5°C | 19.7°C | |
| SEP 24 | 22.5°C | 19.9°C | |
| SEP 25 | 22.5°C | 20.0°C | |
| SEP 26 | 22.5°C | 20.2°C | |
| SEP 27 | 22.5°C | 20.4°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 | 6°C | 9°C | 12°C |
| February | 6°C | 9°C | 11°C |
| March | 5°C | 11°C | 17°C |
| April | 9°C | 13°C | 16°C |
| May | 13°C | 18°C | 22°C |
| June | 18°C | 22°C | 25°C |
| July | 22°C | 25°C | 29°C |
| August | 22°C | 26°C | 30°C |
| September | 20°C | 23°C | 25°C |
| October | 15°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| November | 10°C | 15°C | 18°C |
| December | 9°C | 12°C | 15°C |
Whiskeytown Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Whiskeytown Lake: Weather Forecast
September 21
September 22
September 23
September 24
September 25
Location & Local Information
Whiskeytown Lake, a reservoir in Northern California, experiences a wide range of water temperatures through the year. Surface temperatures in summer commonly sit between about 68–80°F (20–27°C), and on especially hot afternoons can approach the low 80s°F (around 27–28°C). In spring and fall the surface tends to be cooler, roughly 50–70°F (10–21°C) depending on air temperatures and recent inflows. Winter temperatures are usually the coldest, often in the mid‑40s to mid‑50s°F (7–13°C) at the surface. Because the lake is relatively deep in places and receives cooler stream inflows, thermoclines and colder layers persist below the surface year‑round, so water temperature can drop sharply with depth even during warm months.
Swimming is permitted in many parts of Whiskeytown Lake, especially at designated beaches and day‑use areas managed for recreation, which is why it is a popular spot for summer visitors. However, swimmers should be aware of hazards: cold water and sudden temperature changes can increase risk of cold‑water shock and hypothermia, and buoyancy is reduced in cold water. Lifeguards are not present at all sites and boat traffic can be significant, so the park recommends common‑sense precautions such as swimming near shore, wearing a life jacket if uncertain, and checking posted signs or ranger guidance for seasonal water quality or safety advisories.