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 12.1°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| OCT 5 | 11.8°C | 10.0°C | |
| OCT 6 | 11.5°C | 10.0°C | |
| OCT 7 | 11.7°C | 10.0°C | |
| OCT 8 | 11.4°C | 10.0°C | |
| OCT 9 | 11.1°C | 10.0°C | |
| OCT 10 | 11.2°C | 10.0°C | |
| OCT 11 | 11.4°C | 10.0°C | |
| OCT 12 | 12.5°C | 10.0°C | |
| OCT 13 | 10.0°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 14 | 10.0°C | 11.9°C | |
| OCT 15 | 10.0°C | 11.8°C | |
| OCT 16 | 10.0°C | 11.7°C | |
| OCT 17 | 10.0°C | 11.6°C | |
| OCT 18 | 10.0°C | 11.5°C | |
| OCT 19 | 10.0°C | 11.4°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 | 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
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
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.