Charleston — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Charleston, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Charleston today is 18.1°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 65°F (18°C) to 68°F (20°C). This is already quite warm water, which is ideal for most people. Swimming becomes comfortable, and prolonged stays in the water do not cause discomfort. This temperature is perfect for family trips and for those who prefer warmer water. It is also comfortable for water sports such as surfing or swimming. 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| OCT 5 | 20.4°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 6 | 20.0°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 7 | 20.6°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 8 | 19.5°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 9 | 19.5°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 10 | 19.1°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 11 | 19.1°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 18.5°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 13 | 15.5°C | 18.0°C | |
| OCT 14 | 15.5°C | 17.8°C | |
| OCT 15 | 15.5°C | 17.7°C | |
| OCT 16 | 15.5°C | 17.6°C | |
| OCT 17 | 15.5°C | 17.5°C | |
| OCT 18 | 15.5°C | 17.3°C | |
| OCT 19 | 15.5°C | 17.2°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 | 6°C | 9°C |
| February | 1°C | 5°C | 9°C |
| March | 3°C | 8°C | 13°C |
| April | 5°C | 11°C | 18°C |
| May | 8°C | 13°C | 21°C |
| June | 14°C | 20°C | 25°C |
| July | 17°C | 22°C | 28°C |
| August | 17°C | 22°C | 28°C |
| September | 11°C | 18°C | 26°C |
| October | 8°C | 16°C | 23°C |
| November | 3°C | 8°C | 16°C |
| December | 2°C | 5°C | 8°C |
Charleston: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
Location & Local Information
Charleston, West Virginia, is situated along the Kanawha River, which flows through the heart of the city and provides various recreational opportunities. The water temperature in the Kanawha River can fluctuate throughout the year, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 60°F to 70°F (16°C to 21°C). These temperatures are refreshing for some water activities like kayaking, fishing, and boating, but they may be too cool for comfortable swimming, especially during the early summer months when the river is still influenced by snowmelt from the surrounding mountains.
Swimming in the Kanawha River near Charleston is not as common due to the cooler temperatures and occasional strong currents. However, the river remains a popular spot for other water-based activities such as canoeing and rafting. Some people enjoy floating down the river during warmer weather, but it's important to be aware of the water’s chilly temperatures and the currents, which can be strong and unpredictable. For a more relaxing experience, public pools in Charleston maintain water temperatures around 78°F to 82°F (25°C to 28°C), providing a much warmer and safer option for swimming.
Additionally, nearby lakes and reservoirs, like the Summersville Lake, offer more favorable conditions for swimming, with temperatures often rising to around 70°F to 80°F (21°C to 27°C) during the summer. These warmer bodies of water provide a great alternative for swimming and other recreational activities, attracting those who want a more traditional swimming experience away from the cooler waters of the Kanawha River.