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Rawtenstall — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast

This page provides information on the current water temperature in Rawtenstall, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.

River Irwell, United Kingdom
River Irwell, United Kingdom © By Ian Roberts, CC BY-SA 2.0

Current Water Temperature

17.1°C
Today
16.9°C
Yesterday
15.4°C
A Week Ago
Get instant access to real-time water temperatures for this and all other locations with our iOS and Android apps.

Water Temperature in Rawtenstall today is 17.1°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

From June 1 to July 2

Table of Daily Sea Temperature Data

Date Current Average Forecast
JUN 2415.4°C18.2°C
JUN 2515.4°C18.2°C
JUN 2615.4°C18.2°C
JUN 2717.0°C18.2°C
JUN 2817.0°C18.2°C
JUN 2916.6°C18.2°C
JUN 3016.9°C18.2°C
JUL 117.1°C19.0°C
JUL 219.0°C17.2°C
JUL 319.0°C17.3°C
JUL 419.0°C17.4°C
JUL 519.0°C17.5°C
JUL 619.0°C17.6°C
JUL 719.0°C17.7°C
JUL 819.0°C17.8°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
January1°C5°C8°C
February1°C5°C8°C
March2°C6°C9°C
April6°C9°C12°C
May9°C14°C18°C
June13°C18°C23°C
July15°C19°C24°C
August14°C18°C23°C
September11°C16°C20°C
October9°C12°C15°C
November4°C7°C11°C
December1°C5°C8°C

Rawtenstall: Weather Forecast

July 2

° / °
dense intensity drizzle
rain: 98% | wind:

July 3

° / °
light drizzle
rain: 34% | wind:

July 4

° / °
light drizzle
rain: 79% | wind:

July 5

° / °
overcast
rain: 52% | wind:

July 6

° / °
overcast
rain: 34% | wind:

Location & Local Information

Rawtenstall, a market town in Lancashire, sits along the upper reaches of the River Irwell, where the water flows through a narrow valley surrounded by wooded hills. The river here is cool and fast-moving for most of the year, reflecting its upland character and the region’s mild but damp climate. In winter, the Irwell typically measures between 3 and 5°C (37–41°F), remaining cold and clear. By spring, it gradually warms to about 8–10°C (46–50°F). During midsummer—particularly in July and August—the temperature can rise to 15–17°C (59–63°F) in slower pools or sunlit bends. As autumn approaches, it cools again to around 9–11°C (48–52°F), keeping a fresh, invigorating quality that lasts into late October.

Swimming in the River Irwell around Rawtenstall is possible but should be approached with care. The water is clean in many parts, yet currents can be strong after rainfall, and the riverbed is often rocky. Local wild swimmers sometimes enjoy secluded spots in summer when conditions are calm. For most visitors, walking or picnicking along the riverbanks provides a safer way to appreciate the scenery. Nearby attractions include the Irwell Sculpture Trail, Whitaker Park, and the heritage East Lancashire Railway, all offering easy access to the valley’s natural and cultural character.

Nearby Locations

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current water temperature in Rawtenstall?
Water Temperature in Rawtenstall today is 17.1°C.
What is the water temperature in Rawtenstall during the summer months?
The water temperature in Rawtenstall in summer fluctuates in the range of 13°C - 24°C.
Is it possible to swim in Rawtenstall (United Kingdom) in River Irwell and what are the possibilities for this?
While you can physically enter the River Irwell in Rawtenstall, there are no designated bathing sites and swimming is generally not recommended because of variable water quality, hazards and currents, so people usually choose local pools, managed open-water venues or organised wild‑swimming groups that assess safety before swimming.