Cardiff — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Cardiff, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Cardiff today is 15.6°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 16 | 16.4°C | 18.0°C | |
| SEP 17 | 16.3°C | 18.0°C | |
| SEP 18 | 15.7°C | 18.0°C | |
| SEP 19 | 15.8°C | 18.0°C | |
| SEP 20 | 15.6°C | 18.0°C | |
| SEP 21 | 15.4°C | 18.0°C | |
| SEP 22 | 15.1°C | 18.0°C | |
| SEP 23 | 15.6°C | 18.0°C | |
| SEP 24 | 18.0°C | 15.7°C | |
| SEP 25 | 18.0°C | 15.8°C | |
| SEP 26 | 18.0°C | 16.0°C | |
| SEP 27 | 18.0°C | 16.1°C | |
| SEP 28 | 18.0°C | 16.2°C | |
| SEP 29 | 18.0°C | 16.3°C | |
| SEP 30 | 18.0°C | 16.4°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 | 2°C | 6°C | 9°C |
| February | 3°C | 7°C | 9°C |
| March | 5°C | 9°C | 11°C |
| April | 7°C | 11°C | 14°C |
| May | 9°C | 14°C | 18°C |
| June | 11°C | 18°C | 24°C |
| July | 14°C | 20°C | 25°C |
| August | 15°C | 19°C | 24°C |
| September | 13°C | 18°C | 22°C |
| October | 9°C | 13°C | 16°C |
| November | 5°C | 9°C | 11°C |
| December | 3°C | 7°C | 9°C |
Cardiff: Weather Forecast
September 23
September 24
September 25
September 26
September 27
Location & Local Information
Cardiff, the capital of Wales, is built around the lower course of the River Taff, which flows through the city before reaching Cardiff Bay and the Bristol Channel. The river’s temperature changes with the seasons but remains generally cool throughout the year. In winter, it averages about 5–7 °C (41–45 °F), rising slowly to around 9–11 °C (48–52 °F) in spring. During summer, when days are longest, the river may reach 15–17 °C (59–63 °F), though deeper or shaded sections stay colder. By autumn, as rainfall increases, the water cools again to near 10 °C (50 °F). The combination of a temperate maritime climate and steady river flow keeps it from warming as much as nearby coastal shallows.
Swimming in the River Taff within Cardiff is not generally recommended due to water quality concerns, strong currents, and boat traffic in certain sections. While the upper reaches beyond the city can be suitable for experienced wild swimmers, urban stretches are better enjoyed for walking and kayaking along the riverside paths. Cardiff offers plenty of water-based activities nearby, including open-water swimming at Cardiff Bay and coastal beaches along the Vale of Glamorgan. Other attractions include Cardiff Castle, Bute Park, and the Wales Millennium Centre, all close to the river’s scenic course.