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Kirkwall
Water Temperature in the North Sea in Kirkwall, Scotland: Current, Historical Data and Forecast
On this page, you will find comprehensive information about the sea temperature in Kirkwall in Scotland, including current readings, historical data and trends, monthly averages, as well as weather forecasts and upcoming temperature predictions. We find every spot where you can swim and tell you what the water temperature is there today and throughout the year.
Current Water Temperature in Kirkwall
6.6°C
TODAY
6.4°C
YESTERDAY
7.2°C
A WEEK AGO
Analysis, Historical Data, and Forecast of Water Temperature
Today sea water temperature in the North Sea in Kirkwall is 6.6°C. This water temperature is still quite low, and swimming in such conditions may only be comfortable for hardened individuals. It is recommended to limit the time spent in the water to avoid hypothermia. For those not accustomed to cold water, it is better to refrain from swimming. However, if you decide to enter the water, it is advisable to wear a warm wetsuit for protection against the cold.
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 for North Sea in Kirkwall Over the Last 30 Days
The water temperature in Kirkwall today is lower than both a week ago and a month ago. Today's sea temperature is generally in line with historical values for this day.
According to our forecast, the sea temperature in Kirkwall will remain nearly unchanged in the coming days, its value will be 6.9°C.
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 across United Kingdom to enhance accuracy.
Water temperature data for Kirkwall and nearby towns and resorts is gathered from various sources, including buoys and satellite sea and ocean surface maps provided by the NOAA agency. We also incorporate data from local authorities in each specific location worldwide to ensure more accurate temperature readings.
Table of Daily Sea Temperature Data
| Date | Current | Average | Forecast |
|---|---|---|---|
| Feb 17 | 7.2°C | 6.8°C | |
| Feb 18 | 7.3°C | 6.5°C | |
| Feb 19 | 7.3°C | 7.3°C | |
| Feb 20 | 7.7°C | 6.3°C | |
| Feb 21 | 6.7°C | 6.3°C | |
| Feb 22 | 6.7°C | 6.3°C | |
| Feb 23 | 6.4°C | 7.3°C | |
| Feb 24 | 6.2°C | 7.3°C | |
| Feb 25 | 7.3°C | 6.7°C | |
| Feb 26 | 6.5°C | 6.7°C | |
| Feb 27 | 6.5°C | 6.7°C | |
| Feb 28 | 6.5°C | 6.7°C | |
| Mar 1 | 7.3°C | 6.8°C | |
| Mar 2 | 7.0°C | 6.8°C | |
| Mar 3 | 6.8°C | 6.8°C | |
| Mar 4 | 7.3°C | 6.9°C |
Sea Temperature in Kirkwall Throughout the Year
Throughout the year, the sea temperature in Kirkwall never exceeds 64°F (18°C).
Below is the annual chart of sea temperature changes in the North Sea in Kirkwall.
January
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 6°C | 7.5°C | 9°C |
February
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 6°C | 7.5°C | 9°C |
March
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 6°C | 7°C | 8°C |
April
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 6°C | 7.5°C | 9°C |
May
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 7°C | 9°C | 11°C |
June
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 8°C | 10.5°C | 13°C |
July
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 9°C | 12°C | 15°C |
August
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 11°C | 13°C | 15°C |
September
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 11°C | 13°C | 15°C |
October
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 10°C | 12°C | 14°C |
November
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 9°C | 11°C | 13°C |
December
| Minimum | Average | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| 7°C | 9°C | 11°C |
Monthly Water Temperature Histogram for North Sea in Kirkwall
You can explore detailed data on how the water temperature in Kirkwall varies each month:
What Beaches Are There In and Around Kirkwall?
Inganess Bay
Inganess Bay is a 3-stars sandy beach, located in a 4 km (2 miles) radius of Kirkwall. There are lifeguards on the beach. There is parking. There are restrooms.
Mill Sands Beach
Mill Sands Beach is a 2-stars sandy beach, located in a 7 km (4 miles) radius of Kirkwall. There is parking. Mill Sands Beach is an excellent spot for fishing enthusiasts, offering good opportunities to catch local fish.
Kirkwall Weather
FEBRUARY 25
6°C / 7°C
light rainhumidity: 72% | wind: 6 km/h
FEBRUARY 26
6°C / 7°C
light rainhumidity: 75% | wind: 10 km/h
FEBRUARY 27
7°C / 8°C
light rainhumidity: 81% | wind: 11 km/h
FEBRUARY 28
6°C / 7°C
overcast clouds: 85-100%humidity: 77% | wind: 12 km/h
Sea Temperature in the North Sea in Kirkwall: General Trends and Swimming Opportunities
The coastal regions of Scotland, United Kingdom typically have a temperate maritime climate characterized by relatively mild, wet winters and cool, moderately wet summers. The difference between seasons is not dramatic due to the regulating influence of the Atlantic Ocean, with temperature and precipitation levels generally experiencing minimal variation throughout the year.
Kirkwall is located in Europe in the Northern Hemisphere at a latitude of 59 degrees, along the shores of the North Sea. Kirkwall lies within the Scotland in United Kingdom.
The average annual daytime air temperature in Kirkwall is 10°C (50°F), with the average nighttime temperature being -4°C (25°F). The highest average daily temperature occurs in July, reaching 23°C (73°F), while the lowest is in December at -3°C (27°F). As for nighttime temperatures, the minimum average temperature of -13°C (8°F) is recorded in December, and the maximum is in July, reaching 5°C (41°F).
According to historical data, Kirkwall experiences 104 rainy days per year, which accounts for 28 percent of all days in the year. On average, there are 9 rainy days each month. The wettest month is June, with 13 rainy days and 71 mm (2.8 inches) of precipitation, while the driest month is December, which typically has 6 rainy days and only 25 mm (1.0 inches) of precipitation.
The average annual water temperature in North Sea in Kirkwall is 10°C (50°F). In January, the water reaches its lowest point of the year at 6°C (43°F), while in July, it peaks at 15°C (59°F). In Kirkwall, the water temperature in the North Sea never consistently reaches a comfortable level for swimming in any month.
Geographical Location of Kirkwall
Nearby Cities
Frequently Asked Questions About Kirkwall and its Water Temperatures
What is the current sea temperature in Kirkwall?
The water temperature today in the North Sea in Kirkwall is 44°F (6.6°C).
In which months is the water temperature in Kirkwall comfortable for swimming?
It cannot be guaranteed that the water temperature in Kirkwall will be comfortable for swimming in any month of the year.
What is the water temperature in Kirkwall during the winter?
The water temperature in the North Sea in Kirkwall during the winter ranges from 6°C to 11°C (43°F to 52°F).
What is the water temperature in Kirkwall during the spring?
The water temperature in the North Sea in Kirkwall during the spring ranges from 6°C to 11°C (43°F to 52°F).
What is the water temperature in Kirkwall during the summer?
The water temperature in the North Sea in Kirkwall during the summer ranges from 8°C to 15°C (46°F to 59°F).
What is the water temperature in Kirkwall during the fall?
The water temperature in the North Sea in Kirkwall during the fall ranges from 9°C to 15°C (48°F to 59°F).
Is it possible to swim in the sea in Kirkwall at any time of the year?
In Kirkwall, the North Sea is quite cold, and swimming is almost impossible as the water temperature never reaches 21°C (70°F).
What sea temperatures can I expect in Kirkwall in the next month?
In March, the water temperature in the North Sea in Kirkwall will range between 43°F (6°C) and 46°F (8°C)