Chatham — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Chatham, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Chatham today is 21.8°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
✅ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 68°F (20°C) to 74°F (23°C). The water is warm and pleasant for swimming, and in this range, one can stay in the water for extended periods without the risk of hypothermia. This is the ideal temperature for relaxation, swimming, and water sports. Families with children, as well as outdoor enthusiasts, will enjoy swimming and time spent in the water. For most people, this is the optimal temperature for a comfortable beach experience. 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| AUG 6 | 21.9°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 7 | 21.7°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 8 | 21.7°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 9 | 21.7°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 10 | 21.6°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 11 | 21.6°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 12 | 21.6°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 13 | 21.6°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 14 | 19.0°C | 21.7°C | |
| AUG 15 | 19.0°C | 21.5°C | |
| AUG 16 | 19.0°C | 21.4°C | |
| AUG 17 | 19.0°C | 21.2°C | |
| AUG 18 | 19.0°C | 21.1°C | |
| AUG 19 | 19.0°C | 21.0°C | |
| AUG 20 | 19.0°C | 20.8°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 | 8°C | 11°C | 14°C |
| May | 9°C | 14°C | 19°C |
| June | 13°C | 19°C | 24°C |
| July | 16°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 | 4°C | 8°C | 12°C |
| December | 3°C | 7°C | 9°C |
Chatham: Weather Forecast
August 14
August 15
August 16
August 17
August 18
August 19
Location & Local Information
Chatham, a historic town in Kent, stands on the tidal stretch of the River Medway, where the river meets the influence of the sea before flowing into the Thames Estuary. The water temperature here is shaped by both freshwater and tidal conditions, keeping it cool and variable throughout the year. In winter, the Medway near Chatham typically remains between 5 and 7°C (41–45°F), staying cold and brackish. By spring, it gradually warms to around 9–12°C (48–54°F). During midsummer—especially in July and August—the surface water can reach 17–19°C (63–66°F) on warm, calm days, though tidal movement often keeps it slightly cooler. As autumn arrives, the temperature drops again to about 11–13°C (52–55°F), maintaining a steady maritime freshness through most of the year.
Swimming in the River Medway at Chatham is not recommended due to strong tidal currents, boat traffic, and unpredictable depths. However, open-water swimmers sometimes explore safer stretches farther upstream, where the flow is calmer and the water cleaner. For most visitors, the river is best enjoyed from the shore, along its walkways and viewpoints. Chatham’s historic dockyard, waterfront museums, and nearby Medway Valley parks make the area a fascinating blend of maritime heritage, nature, and riverside recreation.