Wilmington — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Wilmington, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Wilmington today is 23.5°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
✅ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 75°F (23°C) to 79°F (26°C). This is a very comfortable temperature for swimming, and many people can enjoy prolonged stays in the water without feeling cold. The water is pleasantly warm, making it ideal for relaxation and water sports. This temperature range is particularly popular among tourists, as it combines comfort and safety for health. 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 11 | 22.9°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 23.2°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 13 | 22.7°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 14 | 23.0°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 15 | 22.5°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 16 | 23.0°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 17 | 22.8°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 18 | 24.0°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 19 | 15.5°C | 23.1°C | |
| OCT 20 | 15.5°C | 22.7°C | |
| OCT 21 | 15.5°C | 22.3°C | |
| OCT 22 | 15.5°C | 21.9°C | |
| OCT 23 | 15.5°C | 21.5°C | |
| OCT 24 | 15.5°C | 21.1°C | |
| OCT 25 | 15.5°C | 20.7°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 | 3°C | 7°C | 12°C |
| February | 3°C | 8°C | 13°C |
| March | 3°C | 11°C | 18°C |
| April | 5°C | 13°C | 22°C |
| May | 8°C | 16°C | 25°C |
| June | 14°C | 20°C | 27°C |
| July | 17°C | 24°C | 31°C |
| August | 17°C | 23°C | 29°C |
| September | 11°C | 19°C | 27°C |
| October | 8°C | 16°C | 23°C |
| November | 3°C | 11°C | 19°C |
| December | 6°C | 10°C | 13°C |
Wilmington: Weather Forecast
October 19
October 20
October 21
October 22
October 23
Location & Local Information
Wilmington, North Carolina, is located along the Cape Fear River, which runs through the city and offers a variety of recreational opportunities. The water temperature in the Cape Fear River varies throughout the year. During the summer months, the river’s temperature typically ranges from 75°F (24°C) to 85°F (29°C), which makes it ideal for activities like boating, fishing, and paddling. The warm temperatures also attract those who want to cool off by wading in the shallower areas, but swimming in the river itself is less common due to the currents and water quality concerns.
In the cooler months, the water temperature in the Cape Fear River drops, generally ranging from 45°F (7°C) to 55°F (13°C), making swimming in the river less feasible. The colder water combined with the river’s flow can make it an unappealing place for swimming during this time. However, it is still suitable for other water activities like kayaking and fishing, which are enjoyed year-round by locals and visitors alike.
While swimming directly in the Cape Fear River may not be the most popular option due to safety concerns and water conditions, Wilmington offers several beach areas along the coast, such as Wrightsville Beach and Carolina Beach, where water temperatures during summer can reach up to 80°F (27°C) or higher. These beaches provide much safer and more enjoyable options for swimming, with calm waters and more controlled environments for relaxation.