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Is it too cold to swim in Chicago?
The latest NASA JPL satellite analysis, dated November 3, 2026, gives 59°F (14.8°C) at the nearest water pixel. That is very cold water.
Between 50°F and 60°F, rated very dangerous to immediately life-threatening: the range where most unacclimated people have a maximum cold shock response. Temperature is only one factor: check rip current and surf alerts, and swim near lifeguards.
How cold is too cold to swim?Water temperature through the year
Average water temperature by month, satellite 2016–2025. Warmest in August.
Average water temperature by month
| Month | Average | Coldest year | Warmest year |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 37°F | 35°F | 39°F |
| February | 35°F | 34°F | 37°F |
| March | 37°F | 34°F | 39°F |
| April | 41°F | 38°F | 43°F |
| May | 51°F | 47°F | 56°F |
| June | 63°F | 59°F | 66°F |
| July | 72°F | 70°F | 75°F |
| August | 74°F | 72°F | 75°F |
| September | 69°F | 66°F | 72°F |
| October | 60°F | 54°F | 64°F |
| November | 49°F | 43°F | 55°F |
| December | 42°F | 40°F | 45°F |
Water temperatures at nearby beaches
Frequently asked questions
Is it too cold to swim in Chicago?
The latest NASA JPL satellite analysis, dated November 3, 2026, gives 59°F (14.8°C) at the nearest water pixel. That is very cold water. Between 50°F and 60°F, rated very dangerous to immediately life-threatening: the range where most unacclimated people have a maximum cold shock response. Temperature is only one factor: check rip current and surf alerts, and swim near lifeguards. How cold is too cold?
When is the water warmest at Chicago?
Based on satellite data from 2016 to 2025, the water is warmest in August (average 74°F) and coldest in February (average 35°F).
Where does this water temperature come from?
We show NASA JPL’s daily MUR satellite analysis for the nearest water, about 0.4 mi away, when no suitable current in-water sensor is available. Satellite values are typically a degree or two cooler than afternoon readings at the shore. Satellite vs. buoy temperatures.
Sources: NASA JPL MUR satellite analysis; forecast and alerts from the National Weather Service. Readings are provisional. All Illinois water temperatures · Methodology