Loch Tay — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Loch Tay, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Loch Tay today is 16.9°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| JUL 16 | 17.2°C | 18.0°C | |
| JUL 17 | 17.0°C | 18.0°C | |
| JUL 18 | 17.1°C | 18.0°C | |
| JUL 19 | 17.1°C | 18.0°C | |
| JUL 20 | 17.1°C | 18.0°C | |
| JUL 21 | 17.0°C | 18.0°C | |
| JUL 22 | 17.0°C | 18.0°C | |
| JUL 23 | 16.9°C | 18.0°C | |
| JUL 24 | 18.0°C | 17.0°C | |
| JUL 25 | 18.0°C | 17.0°C | |
| JUL 26 | 18.0°C | 17.1°C | |
| JUL 27 | 18.0°C | 17.1°C | |
| JUL 28 | 18.0°C | 17.2°C | |
| JUL 29 | 18.0°C | 17.2°C | |
| JUL 30 | 18.0°C | 17.3°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 | 2°C | 5°C |
| February | 0°C | 3°C | 6°C |
| March | 1°C | 5°C | 8°C |
| April | 4°C | 8°C | 10°C |
| May | 7°C | 11°C | 16°C |
| June | 12°C | 18°C | 24°C |
| July | 14°C | 18°C | 23°C |
| August | 12°C | 17°C | 21°C |
| September | 9°C | 14°C | 18°C |
| October | 6°C | 9°C | 12°C |
| November | 3°C | 7°C | 9°C |
| December | 0°C | 4°C | 7°C |
Loch Tay: Weather Forecast
July 24
July 25
July 26
July 27
Location & Local Information
Loch Tay, a large and deep freshwater loch in the Scottish Highlands, maintains consistently cold water temperatures characteristic of a Highland body of water. Over the course of the year, the temperature typically fluctuates from chilly winter lows of approximately 4 to 7∘C (39 to 45∘F). Even in the height of summer, the surface water rarely warms substantially, reaching average highs of only about 13 to 16∘C (55 to 61∘F). The loch's depth means that temperatures remain frigid a short distance below the surface, posing a constant risk of cold water shock.
Wild swimming is permitted in Loch Tay, as is generally the case in Scottish inland waters under access rights, but it comes with strong safety warnings. The severe and prolonged chill requires careful acclimatisation and is best undertaken with appropriate gear like a wetsuit and a tow float. Swimmers must also be wary of the rapid drop-off in depth, strong winds that can create waves, and the remoteness of some locations. Aside from water activities, visitors can explore the Scottish Crannog Centre, a reconstruction of an Iron Age loch dwelling, and climb Ben Lawers, one of Scotland’s highest mountains that overlooks the loch's northern shore.