Willow Creek Reservoir — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Willow Creek Reservoir, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Willow Creek Reservoir today is 15.7°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 60°F (15°C) to 65°F (18°C). The water is comfortable for most people, making it an ideal range for water sports enthusiasts. The temperature does not cause significant discomfort, and swimming will be pleasant for the majority. However, it's important to remember that prolonged exposure to the water can still lead to cooling, so it's essential to monitor the time spent in the water, especially for children or elderly people. 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| JUN 3 | 14.8°C | 14.0°C | |
| JUN 4 | 14.7°C | 14.0°C | |
| JUN 5 | 15.5°C | 14.0°C | |
| JUN 6 | 15.7°C | 14.0°C | |
| JUN 7 | 16.1°C | 14.0°C | |
| JUN 8 | 16.2°C | 14.0°C | |
| JUN 10 | 15.7°C | 14.0°C | |
| JUN 11 | 14.0°C | 15.6°C | |
| JUN 12 | 14.0°C | 15.5°C | |
| JUN 13 | 14.0°C | 15.4°C | |
| JUN 14 | 14.0°C | 15.4°C | |
| JUN 15 | 14.0°C | 15.3°C | |
| JUN 16 | 14.0°C | 15.2°C | |
| JUN 17 | 14.0°C | 15.1°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 | 1°C | 4°C | 6°C |
| February | 1°C | 4°C | 7°C |
| March | 1°C | 5°C | 9°C |
| April | 0°C | 4°C | 9°C |
| May | 4°C | 10°C | 16°C |
| June | 9°C | 14°C | 19°C |
| July | 16°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| August | 17°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| September | 13°C | 17°C | 21°C |
| October | 4°C | 10°C | 16°C |
| November | 2°C | 7°C | 10°C |
| December | 1°C | 4°C | 7°C |
Willow Creek Reservoir: Water Temperature by Location
Willow Creek Reservoir: Weather Forecast
June 9
June 10
June 11
June 12
Location & Local Information
Willow Creek Reservoir in Montana experiences a wide seasonal swing in water temperature. In winter the surface often approaches freezing, roughly 32–40°F (0–4°C) where ice forms or slushy water persists. During spring melt and cool weather the reservoir typically registers about 40–55°F (4–13°C) as warming progresses. Peak summer surface temperatures are usually the warmest period, commonly reaching roughly 60–75°F (15–24°C) on sunny, calm days in shallow areas, though deeper or wind‑blown parts remain cooler. By autumn the water cools again into the 45–55°F range (7–13°C) as air temperatures decline and stratification breaks down.
Swimming is generally possible in summer when surface temperatures are most comfortable, and public reservoirs like Willow Creek commonly allow recreational swimming unless local rules or signage indicate otherwise. However, swimmers should be aware the season for comfortable bathing is relatively short, water can remain brisk even in early summer, and hazards such as sudden drop‑offs, boat traffic, limited visibility, and variable water quality may exist. Ice makes winter swimming unsafe. Always check posted regulations and conditions before entering the water and use appropriate precautions—life jackets for boating, avoiding isolated spots, and being mindful that colder water increases risk of hypothermia.