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 4°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 | 8.0°C | 10.0°C | |
| OCT 27 | 8.1°C | 10.0°C | |
| OCT 28 | 7.1°C | 10.0°C | |
| OCT 29 | 6.6°C | 10.0°C | |
| OCT 30 | 6.4°C | 10.0°C | |
| OCT 31 | 6.2°C | 10.0°C | |
| NOV 1 | 4.7°C | 6.5°C | |
| NOV 2 | 4.5°C | 6.5°C | |
| NOV 3 | 6.5°C | 4.1°C | |
| NOV 4 | 6.5°C | 4.3°C | |
| NOV 5 | 6.5°C | 4.4°C | |
| NOV 6 | 6.5°C | 4.5°C | |
| NOV 7 | 6.5°C | 4.6°C | |
| NOV 8 | 6.5°C | 4.8°C | |
| NOV 9 | 6.5°C | 4.9°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 | 15°C | 20°C | 25°C |
| August | 17°C | 20°C | 24°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
November 3
November 4
November 5
November 6
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.