Manchester — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Manchester, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Manchester today is 17.2°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| AUG 26 | 16.5°C | 18.0°C | |
| AUG 27 | 16.5°C | 18.0°C | |
| AUG 28 | 16.5°C | 18.0°C | |
| AUG 29 | 16.5°C | 18.0°C | |
| AUG 30 | 16.7°C | 18.0°C | |
| AUG 31 | 16.7°C | 18.0°C | |
| SEP 1 | 16.7°C | 16.0°C | |
| SEP 2 | 16.7°C | 16.0°C | |
| SEP 3 | 16.0°C | 17.1°C | |
| SEP 4 | 16.0°C | 17.1°C | |
| SEP 5 | 16.0°C | 17.0°C | |
| SEP 6 | 16.0°C | 17.0°C | |
| SEP 7 | 16.0°C | 16.9°C | |
| SEP 8 | 16.0°C | 16.8°C | |
| SEP 9 | 16.0°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 | 1°C | 5°C | 8°C |
| February | 1°C | 5°C | 8°C |
| March | 2°C | 6°C | 9°C |
| April | 6°C | 9°C | 12°C |
| May | 9°C | 14°C | 18°C |
| June | 13°C | 19°C | 23°C |
| July | 15°C | 19°C | 24°C |
| August | 14°C | 18°C | 23°C |
| September | 11°C | 16°C | 20°C |
| October | 9°C | 12°C | 15°C |
| November | 4°C | 7°C | 10°C |
| December | 1°C | 5°C | 8°C |
Manchester: Weather Forecast
September 3
September 4
September 5
September 6
September 7
September 8
Location & Local Information
The River Irwell flows directly through Manchester, historically acting as a vital artery for the city. Seasonal water temperatures in the river follow the regional climate, with winter lows typically ranging from 4∘C to 8∘C (39∘F to 46∘F). During the warmer summer months, particularly in July and August, the temperature can rise significantly, often falling between 15∘C and 18∘C (59∘F to 64∘F). These temperatures make the water bracingly cold outside of peak summer, and even then, extended exposure carries risks.
Swimming in the River Irwell is strongly discouraged and is generally considered unsafe for the public. The main reasons are health and safety concerns, including risks associated with poor water quality, submerged debris, and strong, unpredictable currents, especially after heavy rainfall which can cause raw sewage overflows. For water-based activity, visitors are better served by the controlled environment of the nearby Salford Quays, which offers watersports and is a hub for culture. Other major attractions in the immediate vicinity include The Lowry theatre and art centre, the Imperial War Museum North, and the iconic Manchester United football ground at Old Trafford.