Wild Horse Reservoir — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Wild Horse Reservoir, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Wild Horse Reservoir 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 | 16.8°C | 20.2°C | |
| SEP 15 | 17.1°C | 20.2°C | |
| SEP 16 | 16.2°C | 20.2°C | |
| SEP 17 | 15.6°C | 20.2°C | |
| SEP 18 | 15.7°C | 20.2°C | |
| SEP 19 | 16.4°C | 20.2°C | |
| SEP 20 | 16.7°C | 20.2°C | |
| SEP 21 | 14.6°C | 20.2°C | |
| SEP 22 | 20.2°C | 14.9°C | |
| SEP 23 | 20.2°C | 15.2°C | |
| SEP 24 | 20.2°C | 15.4°C | |
| SEP 25 | 20.2°C | 15.7°C | |
| SEP 26 | 20.2°C | 16.0°C | |
| SEP 27 | 20.2°C | 16.3°C | |
| SEP 28 | 20.2°C | 16.6°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 | 7°C | 13°C |
| March | 3°C | 9°C | 14°C |
| April | 4°C | 10°C | 16°C |
| May | 8°C | 14°C | 19°C |
| June | 13°C | 17°C | 20°C |
| July | 17°C | 23°C | 29°C |
| August | 20°C | 23°C | 27°C |
| September | 17°C | 20°C | 24°C |
| October | 11°C | 16°C | 21°C |
| November | 3°C | 10°C | 15°C |
| December | 2°C | 7°C | 10°C |
Wild Horse Reservoir: Water Temperature by Location
Wild Horse Reservoir: Weather Forecast
September 21
September 22
September 23
September 24
September 25
September 26
Location & Local Information
Wild Horse Reservoir in northeastern Nevada typically shows a strong seasonal swing in surface water temperatures. In winter the lake commonly sits at or just above freezing, roughly 32–40°F (0–4°C), and ice can form in cold spells. Spring brings a gradual warming with surface readings often in the 35–55°F range (2–13°C) as snowmelt and cool air persist. Peak warmth occurs in mid to late summer when shallow areas can reach about 60–75°F (16–24°C) on sunny days, though deeper sections remain noticeably cooler. By fall temperatures usually decline to roughly 45–60°F (7–16°C) as air temperatures drop and stratification breaks down.
Swimming at Wild Horse Reservoir is generally allowed because the site is managed as a recreation area and has accessible shoreline, but there are important caveats. There are typically no lifeguards on duty, water levels and conditions vary with seasonal releases and drought, and even summer swims can feel cold enough to increase the risk of cramping or hypothermia. Ice in winter and spring runoff in early season make swimming unsafe at those times. Visitors should check current local notices, respect any posted restrictions, and use caution—swimming is permitted but dependent on conditions and personal preparedness.