Elephant Butte Lake Water Temperature: Late August Reading

Current Snapshot (August 24, 2023)

85°F (29°C) — typical for late summer in southern New Mexico.

Seasonal Pattern

• Spring (Apr–May): 55–65°F (13–18°C)
• Summer (Jun–Aug): 75–85°F (24–29°C) – peaks late August
• Fall (Sep–Oct): Gradual cooling to 65–70°F
• Winter (Nov–Mar): 45–55°F (7–13°C)

Variables

• Depth: Surface 5–10°F warmer than 20 ft down
• Location: Shallow coves > main channel
• Weather: Cold fronts drop 3–5°F in days
• Release rates: Dam outflow affects mixing

Best Sources for Real-Time Data

• USGS Water Data (site 08361000)
• NM State Parks – Elephant Butte Lake page
• Marina/fishing reports (Marina Del Sur, North Shore)
• Weather apps with lake temps (Windy, Fishbrain)

Always check before swimming, fishing, or boating—especially for cold-water shock risk in off-season.