Glen Etive — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Glen Etive, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Glen Etive today is 18.5°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 65°F (18°C) to 68°F (20°C). This is already quite warm water, which is ideal for most people. Swimming becomes comfortable, and prolonged stays in the water do not cause discomfort. This temperature is perfect for family trips and for those who prefer warmer water. It is also comfortable for water sports such as surfing or swimming. 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 | 17.6°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 7 | 17.6°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 8 | 17.4°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 9 | 17.4°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 10 | 17.6°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 11 | 17.6°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 12 | 17.5°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 13 | 17.5°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 14 | 19.0°C | 18.5°C | |
| AUG 15 | 19.0°C | 18.6°C | |
| AUG 16 | 19.0°C | 18.6°C | |
| AUG 17 | 19.0°C | 18.6°C | |
| AUG 18 | 19.0°C | 18.6°C | |
| AUG 19 | 19.0°C | 18.7°C | |
| AUG 20 | 19.0°C | 18.7°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.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 0°C | 3°C | 6°C |
| February | 0°C | 4°C | 8°C |
| March | 2°C | 6°C | 9°C |
| April | 5°C | 9°C | 12°C |
| May | 8°C | 13°C | 18°C |
| June | 13°C | 21°C | 27°C |
| July | 15°C | 21°C | 26°C |
| August | 14°C | 19°C | 24°C |
| September | 11°C | 16°C | 21°C |
| October | 7°C | 11°C | 14°C |
| November | 4°C | 8°C | 11°C |
| December | 1°C | 5°C | 8°C |
Glen Etive: Weather Forecast
August 14
August 15
August 16
August 17
August 18
August 19
Location & Local Information
Glen Etive is an iconic, remote Scottish valley famed for its dramatic mountain scenery, through which the turbulent River Etive flows, eventually reaching the sea at Loch Etive. Swimming is a very popular activity here, with many visitors drawn to the river’s plunge pools and natural waterfalls, which are readily accessible from the roadside. However, the water remains extremely cold year-round. Given its source in the mountains, the river's temperature rarely rises high; even in the peak of summer, the pools may only reach an estimated 14∘C (57∘F), while winter temperatures are near freezing, often around 4∘C (39∘F).
The primary hazard to swimmers is not restriction—as wild swimming is generally allowed—but the danger of cold water shock, especially given the swift current and the presence of deep, dark plunge pools. Visitors are strongly advised to enter the water gradually and use appropriate gear. Beyond the river, the glen is famous for being a filming location for the James Bond movie Skyfall, and its access road connects the area to the equally stunning and popular hiking and climbing grounds of Glen Coe and the vast Rannoch Moor.