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 29.3°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
✅ As of today, the minimum water temperature is above 82°F (28°C). This is very warm water, which may feel almost hot to most people. Swimming in such conditions is perfect for those seeking relaxation and comfort in the water. These waters are often preferred for relaxation in hot weather, as the water temperature does not cool the body significantly. However, it is important to remember that in such warm waters, caution is necessary, as prolonged exposure without rest can lead to overheating. 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 5 | 27.6°C | 23.2°C | |
| AUG 6 | 28.3°C | 23.2°C | |
| AUG 7 | 28.7°C | 23.2°C | |
| AUG 8 | 28.8°C | 23.2°C | |
| AUG 9 | 29.0°C | 23.2°C | |
| AUG 10 | 29.4°C | 23.2°C | |
| AUG 11 | 29.4°C | 23.2°C | |
| AUG 12 | 29.3°C | 23.2°C | |
| AUG 13 | 23.2°C | 29.0°C | |
| AUG 14 | 23.2°C | 28.7°C | |
| AUG 15 | 23.2°C | 28.4°C | |
| AUG 16 | 23.2°C | 28.1°C | |
| AUG 17 | 23.2°C | 27.8°C | |
| AUG 18 | 23.2°C | 27.5°C | |
| AUG 19 | 23.2°C | 27.2°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 | 9°C | 15°C |
| April | 5°C | 12°C | 20°C |
| May | 8°C | 15°C | 22°C |
| June | 14°C | 20°C | 26°C |
| July | 17°C | 23°C | 30°C |
| August | 17°C | 23°C | 30°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
August 13
August 14
August 15
August 16
August 17
August 18
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.