Rochester — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Rochester, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Rochester today is 16.3°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| SEP 16 | 17.9°C | 18.0°C | |
| SEP 17 | 17.9°C | 18.0°C | |
| SEP 18 | 17.4°C | 18.0°C | |
| SEP 19 | 17.0°C | 18.0°C | |
| SEP 20 | 16.4°C | 18.0°C | |
| SEP 21 | 16.8°C | 18.0°C | |
| SEP 22 | 16.7°C | 18.0°C | |
| SEP 24 | 18.0°C | 16.4°C | |
| SEP 25 | 18.0°C | 16.5°C | |
| SEP 26 | 18.0°C | 16.6°C | |
| SEP 27 | 18.0°C | 16.6°C | |
| SEP 28 | 18.0°C | 16.7°C | |
| SEP 29 | 18.0°C | 16.8°C | |
| SEP 30 | 18.0°C | 16.9°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 | 2°C | 6°C | 9°C |
| February | 3°C | 7°C | 9°C |
| March | 5°C | 9°C | 11°C |
| April | 8°C | 11°C | 14°C |
| May | 9°C | 14°C | 19°C |
| June | 14°C | 19°C | 24°C |
| July | 16°C | 20°C | 25°C |
| August | 15°C | 19°C | 24°C |
| September | 13°C | 18°C | 22°C |
| October | 9°C | 13°C | 16°C |
| November | 4°C | 8°C | 12°C |
| December | 3°C | 7°C | 9°C |
Rochester: Weather Forecast
September 23
September 24
September 25
September 26
September 27
Location & Local Information
Rochester, with its stunning Norman castle and cathedral, is situated on the River Medway as it widens into its tidal reaches. Consequently, the river's water temperature varies widely with the seasons, heavily influenced by the cooler coastal conditions of the Thames Estuary nearby. River temperatures typically range from a cold low of around 6∘C (43∘F) in the winter months of January and February, to a mild high of approximately 18∘C (64∘F) in late summer, particularly in August and September.
Swimming in this section of the River Medway is strongly discouraged and generally not permitted due to major hazards. The river here is a busy, tidal working waterway with commercial shipping traffic, powerful currents, and the presence of hidden underwater debris. For safe and designated swimming, locals often use The Strand Lido, a unique riverside tidal saltwater pool in nearby Gillingham. Rochester’s other major attractions center on its rich history, including the imposing Rochester Castle, the magnificent Rochester Cathedral, and the Historic Dockyard Chatham just a short distance away.