Washington — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Washington, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Washington today is 19.4°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| APR 11 | 12.3°C | 12.1°C | |
| APR 12 | 12.6°C | 12.1°C | |
| APR 13 | 14.8°C | 12.1°C | |
| APR 14 | 15.4°C | 12.1°C | |
| APR 15 | 17.2°C | 12.1°C | |
| APR 16 | 18.2°C | 12.1°C | |
| APR 17 | 18.9°C | 12.1°C | |
| APR 18 | 19.2°C | 12.1°C | |
| APR 19 | 12.1°C | 19.0°C | |
| APR 20 | 12.1°C | 18.7°C | |
| APR 21 | 12.1°C | 18.3°C | |
| APR 22 | 12.1°C | 17.9°C | |
| APR 23 | 12.1°C | 17.6°C | |
| APR 24 | 12.1°C | 17.2°C | |
| APR 25 | 12.1°C | 16.8°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 | 1°C | 6°C | 9°C |
| February | 1°C | 5°C | 9°C |
| March | 3°C | 9°C | 15°C |
| April | 5°C | 12°C | 20°C |
| May | 8°C | 13°C | 21°C |
| June | 14°C | 19°C | 24°C |
| July | 17°C | 23°C | 29°C |
| August | 17°C | 23°C | 29°C |
| September | 11°C | 17°C | 22°C |
| October | 8°C | 15°C | 21°C |
| November | 3°C | 8°C | 16°C |
| December | 2°C | 5°C | 8°C |
Washington: Weather Forecast
April 19
April 20
April 21
April 22
Location & Local Information
The Potomac River, flowing through Washington, D.C., is a scenic and popular area for a variety of water activities, including boating, kayaking, and fishing. However, when it comes to swimming, the river's temperature can vary significantly depending on the season. During the winter months, the water can be quite cold, with temperatures often hovering around 40°F (4°C). This makes swimming in the Potomac during colder weather impractical and unsafe due to the risk of hypothermia.
In the spring and early summer, the river's water temperature begins to rise, typically reaching around 60°F (15°C) to 70°F (21°C) by late spring. This can make for a more comfortable swimming experience, but the river’s current and water quality are important factors to consider. Due to its fast-moving waters, swimming in certain areas of the Potomac can be dangerous, particularly near bridges or industrial zones. As such, swimming is generally discouraged in many parts of the river, and those who do swim often choose designated areas that are monitored for safety.
By mid to late summer, the temperature of the Potomac can rise to around 75°F (24°C) to 80°F (27°C) in calmer, more sheltered parts of the river, which is more suitable for swimming. However, it is still important to be cautious of the water quality, as the river can occasionally experience pollution due to runoff and other factors. Most residents of Washington, D.C., seeking a safer and more pleasant swimming experience typically opt for the city’s public pools or nearby lakes, where the water is more consistently warm and less affected by strong currents.