Wisconsin Rapids Flowage Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Wisconsin Rapids Flowage Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Wisconsin Rapids Flowage Lake today is 17.6°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| SEP 14 | 19.1°C | 18.5°C | |
| SEP 15 | 18.9°C | 18.5°C | |
| SEP 16 | 18.8°C | 18.5°C | |
| SEP 17 | 19.1°C | 18.5°C | |
| SEP 18 | 18.3°C | 18.5°C | |
| SEP 19 | 18.6°C | 18.5°C | |
| SEP 20 | 18.6°C | 18.5°C | |
| SEP 21 | 17.6°C | 18.5°C | |
| SEP 22 | 18.5°C | 17.6°C | |
| SEP 23 | 18.5°C | 17.7°C | |
| SEP 24 | 18.5°C | 17.7°C | |
| SEP 25 | 18.5°C | 17.8°C | |
| SEP 26 | 18.5°C | 17.8°C | |
| SEP 27 | 18.5°C | 17.9°C | |
| SEP 28 | 18.5°C | 17.9°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 | 0°C | 1°C | 3°C |
| February | 0°C | 1°C | 3°C |
| March | 0°C | 1°C | 3°C |
| April | 1°C | 8°C | 16°C |
| May | 6°C | 13°C | 21°C |
| June | 16°C | 19°C | 23°C |
| July | 19°C | 24°C | 29°C |
| August | 18°C | 25°C | 30°C |
| September | 14°C | 19°C | 23°C |
| October | 9°C | 14°C | 18°C |
| November | 3°C | 9°C | 14°C |
| December | 0°C | 2°C | 4°C |
Wisconsin Rapids Flowage Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Wisconsin Rapids Flowage Lake: Weather Forecast
September 21
September 22
September 23
September 24
September 25
Location & Local Information
The flowage near Wisconsin Rapids, part of the Wisconsin River system, experiences pronounced seasonal shifts in water temperature typical of central Wisconsin inland waters. In spring, surface temperatures commonly range from about 40–60°F (4–16°C) as snowmelt and cooler air persist. By early to midsummer the surface usually warms to roughly 65–80°F (18–27°C), with the warmest stretches often occurring in July and August; deeper water remains noticeably cooler, sometimes 10–15°F (6–8°C) lower, due to stratification. In fall the surface cools back toward 50–65°F (10–18°C) before winter ice forms and surface temperatures approach freezing around 32°F (0°C), with under-ice layers generally near 32–39°F (0–4°C).
Swimming is generally allowed at public access points and designated recreation areas on the flowage because it is a managed public waterbody used for boating, fishing and leisure. However, conditions vary by location and time of year: boat traffic, currents near dam structures, sudden depth changes, and occasional algal blooms can create hazards or local advisories. There are often no lifeguards at informal sites, so swimmers should heed posted signs, check current water-quality notices from local authorities, and use caution with cold water or hypothermia risk during shoulder seasons.