Roanoke — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Roanoke, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Roanoke today is 15.9°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| OCT 6 | 20.6°C | 14.5°C | |
| OCT 7 | 19.8°C | 14.5°C | |
| OCT 8 | 19.1°C | 14.5°C | |
| OCT 9 | 18.5°C | 14.5°C | |
| OCT 10 | 18.5°C | 14.5°C | |
| OCT 11 | 19.7°C | 14.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 16.0°C | 14.5°C | |
| OCT 13 | 16.0°C | 14.5°C | |
| OCT 14 | 14.5°C | 15.8°C | |
| OCT 15 | 14.5°C | 15.8°C | |
| OCT 16 | 14.5°C | 15.7°C | |
| OCT 17 | 14.5°C | 15.6°C | |
| OCT 18 | 14.5°C | 15.6°C | |
| OCT 19 | 14.5°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 20 | 14.5°C | 15.4°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 | 1°C | 6°C | 9°C |
| March | 3°C | 9°C | 15°C |
| April | 5°C | 12°C | 19°C |
| May | 8°C | 15°C | 22°C |
| June | 14°C | 20°C | 26°C |
| July | 17°C | 22°C | 27°C |
| August | 17°C | 21°C | 26°C |
| September | 11°C | 18°C | 24°C |
| October | 8°C | 15°C | 21°C |
| November | 3°C | 8°C | 16°C |
| December | 3°C | 6°C | 10°C |
Roanoke: Weather Forecast
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
Location & Local Information
Roanoke, Virginia, is situated along the Roanoke River, a scenic waterway that flows through the city and provides various recreational opportunities. The water temperature in the Roanoke River can vary depending on the season. During the summer months, the temperature typically ranges from 70°F to 80°F (21°C to 27°C), making it more comfortable for activities like kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. However, the river's water quality and occasional currents make it less ideal for casual swimming, especially in the main channels, which can have strong flows and varying depths.
While swimming directly in the Roanoke River is not as common due to these factors, many people enjoy the river for its recreational offerings, including tubing and fishing. For swimming, residents of Roanoke often turn to other options, such as the public pools maintained by the city. These pools keep water temperatures at around 78°F to 82°F (25°C to 28°C), providing a safe and comfortable environment for swimming, especially during the hotter summer months. Additionally, the nearby Smith Mountain Lake, a larger reservoir located just outside the city, offers a more suitable environment for swimming, boating, and other water activities, with warmer water temperatures that are ideal for swimming in the summer.