Durham — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Durham, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Durham today is 26°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
✅ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 75°F (23°C) to 79°F (26°C). This is a very comfortable temperature for swimming, and many people can enjoy prolonged stays in the water without feeling cold. The water is pleasantly warm, making it ideal for relaxation and water sports. This temperature range is particularly popular among tourists, as it combines comfort and safety for health. 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 9 | 28.4°C | 22.6°C | |
| AUG 10 | 27.6°C | 22.6°C | |
| AUG 11 | 27.6°C | 22.6°C | |
| AUG 12 | 27.4°C | 22.6°C | |
| AUG 13 | 27.3°C | 22.6°C | |
| AUG 14 | 27.4°C | 22.6°C | |
| AUG 15 | 26.7°C | 22.6°C | |
| AUG 16 | 26.0°C | 22.6°C | |
| AUG 17 | 22.6°C | 25.8°C | |
| AUG 18 | 22.6°C | 25.7°C | |
| AUG 19 | 22.6°C | 25.5°C | |
| AUG 20 | 22.6°C | 25.3°C | |
| AUG 21 | 22.6°C | 25.2°C | |
| AUG 22 | 22.6°C | 25.0°C | |
| AUG 23 | 22.6°C | 24.8°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 | 2°C | 7°C | 12°C |
| February | 1°C | 6°C | 10°C |
| March | 3°C | 10°C | 18°C |
| April | 5°C | 14°C | 23°C |
| May | 8°C | 17°C | 27°C |
| June | 14°C | 21°C | 28°C |
| July | 17°C | 23°C | 30°C |
| August | 17°C | 23°C | 29°C |
| September | 11°C | 18°C | 25°C |
| October | 8°C | 16°C | 23°C |
| November | 3°C | 11°C | 18°C |
| December | 4°C | 8°C | 12°C |
Durham: Weather Forecast
August 16
August 17
August 18
August 19
August 20
Location & Local Information
Durham, located in central North Carolina, is surrounded by several small rivers, lakes, and reservoirs, providing residents and visitors with a variety of opportunities for water-based recreation. The city's most prominent water bodies include the Eno River, the Little River, and the nearby Falls Lake. While swimming in the rivers is less common due to their fast-moving waters and varying depths, these lakes and reservoirs offer safer and more controlled environments for swimming, kayaking, and other water activities.
During the warmer months, the water temperatures in Durham's lakes and reservoirs can reach anywhere between 70°F to 80°F (21°C to 27°C). This makes the lakes quite pleasant for a swim, especially in the summer when temperatures in the city often exceed 90°F (32°C). Falls Lake, which is one of the more popular spots, provides designated swimming areas with cleaner water and controlled conditions, making it an ideal location for families or those looking for a relaxing swim. Additionally, some smaller reservoirs, like Lake Michie, also offer opportunities for outdoor water recreation.
While rivers like the Eno and Little River provide scenic views and are popular for activities such as canoeing and tubing, swimming in these waterways is typically not recommended due to their stronger currents and occasional water quality concerns. For those looking to swim in a natural setting, Durham's nearby lakes remain the best option, offering a combination of clear, relatively calm waters with the ability to enjoy various other outdoor activities in the surrounding park areas.