Stromness — Water Temperature, Sea Conditions & Trends
This page provides clear and up-to-date information about water temperature for Stromness (Scotland, United Kingdom). It includes the current water temperature, daily data for the last month presented in a simple chart, and a 7-day forecast. The page also compares today’s value with typical averages for this period, shows usual monthly ranges during the year, and lists nearby beaches with short descriptions. Local weather for the next few days and general details about Stromness help you plan your visit and choose the best time for swimming.
Current Water Temperature
Water temperature in Stromness in the North Sea today is 11°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
❌ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 50°F (10°C) to 54°F (12°C). The water is slightly warmer, but still cool for most people. Swimming in such conditions is possible, but for most people, the time spent in the water should be limited to avoid hypothermia. Even experienced swimmers may feel discomfort if they stay in the water for too long. To improve comfort and safety, a wetsuit can be used.
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
Water temperature in Stromness has risen over the last week and month. Currently, the sea water temperature at this location matches the average for this day in previous years.
According to our forecast, Water temperature in Stromness will be 10.7°C in the next 7 days. See the table below for daily data for the upcoming week.
Table of Daily Sea Temperature Data
| Date | Current | Average | Forecast |
|---|---|---|---|
| JUN 3 | 10.1°C | 10.3°C | |
| JUN 4 | 10.4°C | 9.5°C | |
| JUN 5 | 10.5°C | 9.8°C | |
| JUN 6 | 10.4°C | 10.0°C | |
| JUN 7 | 10.4°C | 10.8°C | |
| JUN 8 | 10.4°C | 10.3°C | |
| JUN 9 | 10.5°C | 10.8°C | |
| JUN 10 | 10.9°C | 10.8°C | |
| JUN 11 | 11.0°C | 10.8°C | 11.0°C |
| JUN 12 | 10.5°C | 11.0°C | |
| JUN 13 | 10.5°C | 10.9°C | |
| JUN 14 | 10.3°C | 10.9°C | |
| JUN 15 | 10.5°C | 10.8°C | |
| JUN 16 | 10.0°C | 10.8°C | |
| JUN 17 | 10.5°C | 10.7°C | |
| JUN 18 | 11.0°C | 10.7°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.
Water temperature data for this location 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.
Annual Water Temperature Overview by Month
Monthly Water Temp Ranges
Annual Water Temperature Trend
Stromness, on the west coast of the Orkney Mainland, sits where cool North Atlantic and local coastal waters meet, producing generally chilly sea conditions year-round. Seasonal sea-surface temperatures near Stromness typically range from around 4–7°C in winter, 5–9°C in spring, 9–13°C in summer, and 7–11°C in autumn, though local conditions can push these values slightly lower or higher. Sheltered bays and the sea lochs around the town warm a little more than exposed headlands, while open stretches and areas influenced by strong currents remain noticeably colder. Weather, wind direction and tidal flow strongly affect short-term changes in temperature, so swimmers and visitors should treat the water as cold even in summer.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 6°C | 8°C | 10°C |
| February | 6°C | 7°C | 9°C |
| March | 6°C | 7°C | 9°C |
| April | 6°C | 8°C | 10°C |
| May | 7°C | 9°C | 11°C |
| June | 8°C | 11°C | 13°C |
| July | 9°C | 12°C | 15°C |
| August | 11°C | 13°C | 15°C |
| September | 11°C | 13°C | 14°C |
| October | 10°C | 12°C | 14°C |
| November | 9°C | 11°C | 13°C |
| December | 8°C | 9°C | 12°C |
* Click on a month to view detailed water temperature data.
Stromness: Weather Forecast
June 12
June 13
June 14
June 15
Location, Beaches & Local Information
Nearby Beaches & Facilities
Sandside Beach
Swimming Conditions
Swimming around Stromness is primarily a wild-swimming and cold-water experience rather than a conventional beach holiday. The town has rocky shorelines, small sandy pockets and nearby sheltered inlets that are used by local swimmers and groups; popular nearby areas such as Scapa Flow offer calmer waters in places but also boat traffic and tidal channels. Because temperatures are low even in summer, most people use wetsuits or drysuits for longer swims and take precautions against cold shock and changing tides. There are few lifeguarded beaches, so swimmers should plan swims with a partner, check tide and weather forecasts, and consider joining local swimming clubs or guided groups to make the most of the unique but bracing coastal swimming opportunities.