Lough Neagh — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Lough Neagh, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Lough Neagh today is 13.3°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 54°F (12°C) to 60°F (15°C). The water is significantly warmer, and swimming becomes possible for most people. However, caution may still be required for prolonged stays in the water, as extended exposure can cause discomfort. This is a suitable temperature range for short swims and for those accustomed to cooler water. For more comfortable swimming, it is recommended to use proper gear. 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| JUN 4 | 12.7°C | 17.4°C | |
| JUN 5 | 13.0°C | 17.4°C | |
| JUN 6 | 14.0°C | 17.4°C | |
| JUN 7 | 13.8°C | 17.4°C | |
| JUN 8 | 13.7°C | 17.4°C | |
| JUN 10 | 13.6°C | 17.4°C | |
| JUN 11 | 13.3°C | 17.4°C | |
| JUN 12 | 17.4°C | 13.5°C | |
| JUN 13 | 17.4°C | 13.7°C | |
| JUN 14 | 17.4°C | 13.9°C | |
| JUN 15 | 17.4°C | 14.1°C | |
| JUN 16 | 17.4°C | 14.3°C | |
| JUN 17 | 17.4°C | 14.5°C | |
| JUN 18 | 17.4°C | 14.7°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 | 4°C | 7°C |
| February | 0°C | 4°C | 7°C |
| March | 2°C | 6°C | 9°C |
| April | 5°C | 9°C | 11°C |
| May | 9°C | 13°C | 18°C |
| June | 12°C | 17°C | 22°C |
| July | 14°C | 18°C | 23°C |
| August | 14°C | 18°C | 23°C |
| September | 11°C | 16°C | 20°C |
| October | 8°C | 11°C | 14°C |
| November | 4°C | 8°C | 12°C |
| December | 0°C | 4°C | 8°C |
Lough Neagh: Weather Forecast
June 12
June 13
June 14
June 15
Location & Local Information
Lough Neagh, the largest freshwater lake in the British Isles, is a vast, relatively shallow body of water in the heart of Northern Ireland. The lake’s surface water temperature fluctuates seasonally, largely mirroring air temperatures. During the cold winter months, the water typically ranges between 4 and 7∘C (39 to 45∘F), and rarely freezes due to its size and exposure to wind. In summer, the surface water can reach a high of 16 to 21∘C (61 to 70∘F) during warm spells, though it averages cooler.
While wild swimming has seen a rise in popularity in Northern Ireland, swimming in Lough Neagh is not currently advisable and has often been warned against by authorities. This is primarily due to recurring and extensive blue-green algae blooms, which flourish in the nutrient-rich water, especially during warmer, settled weather. These blooms can produce toxins harmful to human health and are highly toxic to pets and animals. For visitors who prefer to stay on dry land, the shores offer numerous walking and birdwatching opportunities at spots like Oxford Island Nature Reserve, and the nearby Seamus Heaney HomePlace provides a significant cultural attraction.