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 16.2°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 | 17.9°C | 18.0°C | |
| SEP 17 | 17.9°C | 18.0°C | |
| SEP 18 | 17.4°C | 18.0°C | |
| SEP 19 | 17.0°C | 18.0°C | |
| SEP 20 | 16.4°C | 18.0°C | |
| SEP 21 | 16.8°C | 18.0°C | |
| SEP 22 | 16.7°C | 18.0°C | |
| SEP 24 | 18.0°C | 16.3°C | |
| SEP 25 | 18.0°C | 16.4°C | |
| SEP 26 | 18.0°C | 16.5°C | |
| SEP 27 | 18.0°C | 16.6°C | |
| SEP 28 | 18.0°C | 16.7°C | |
| SEP 29 | 18.0°C | 16.7°C | |
| SEP 30 | 18.0°C | 16.8°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
September 23
September 24
September 25
September 26
September 27
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.