Dover — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Dover, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Dover 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 | 20.5°C | 17.0°C | |
| OCT 6 | 19.9°C | 17.0°C | |
| OCT 7 | 20.2°C | 17.0°C | |
| OCT 8 | 19.1°C | 17.0°C | |
| OCT 9 | 18.4°C | 17.0°C | |
| OCT 10 | 18.8°C | 17.0°C | |
| OCT 11 | 18.9°C | 17.0°C | |
| OCT 12 | 18.8°C | 17.0°C | |
| OCT 13 | 17.0°C | 18.0°C | |
| OCT 14 | 17.0°C | 18.0°C | |
| OCT 15 | 17.0°C | 17.9°C | |
| OCT 16 | 17.0°C | 17.9°C | |
| OCT 17 | 17.0°C | 17.8°C | |
| OCT 18 | 17.0°C | 17.8°C | |
| OCT 19 | 17.0°C | 17.7°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 | 0°C | 4°C | 7°C |
| February | 0°C | 4°C | 7°C |
| March | 1°C | 7°C | 14°C |
| April | 10°C | 15°C | 20°C |
| May | 14°C | 20°C | 26°C |
| June | 19°C | 25°C | 30°C |
| July | 22°C | 28°C | 33°C |
| August | 25°C | 28°C | 31°C |
| September | 20°C | 23°C | 27°C |
| October | 12°C | 17°C | 22°C |
| November | 5°C | 9°C | 13°C |
| December | 3°C | 5°C | 7°C |
Dover: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
October 18
Location & Local Information
Dover, the capital of Delaware, is located near several freshwater bodies, including Silver Lake, Moores Lake, and the St. Jones River. The city’s humid subtropical climate brings warm summers and mild winters, influencing local water temperatures throughout the year. In winter, the surface temperatures of lakes and rivers around Dover usually range from 4–8 °C (39–46 °F). During spring, as air temperatures rise, the water gradually warms to about 12–18 °C (54–64 °F). By midsummer, the surface water in local lakes typically reaches 24–29 °C (75–84 °F), while shaded or deeper sections remain a few degrees cooler. In autumn, temperatures slowly fall back to 12–18 °C (54–64 °F) before returning to winter levels.
Swimming in and around Dover is allowed in certain areas, with Silver Lake being one of the most popular spots for recreation. The best time for swimming is from late May through early September, when the water is comfortably warm. The calm, shallow lakes around the city are well-suited for family swimming and paddling, although the St. Jones River is less ideal due to currents and limited access. Outside of summer, the cooler temperatures make swimming less appealing, but these water bodies remain inviting for fishing, kayaking, and quiet nature activities.