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 17.9°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 5 | 19.7°C | 14.5°C | |
| OCT 6 | 19.8°C | 14.5°C | |
| OCT 7 | 18.9°C | 14.5°C | |
| OCT 8 | 19.3°C | 14.5°C | |
| OCT 9 | 18.7°C | 14.5°C | |
| OCT 10 | 18.9°C | 14.5°C | |
| OCT 11 | 17.9°C | 14.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 18.0°C | 14.5°C | |
| OCT 13 | 14.5°C | 17.7°C | |
| OCT 14 | 14.5°C | 17.6°C | |
| OCT 15 | 14.5°C | 17.4°C | |
| OCT 16 | 14.5°C | 17.2°C | |
| OCT 17 | 14.5°C | 17.1°C | |
| OCT 18 | 14.5°C | 16.9°C | |
| OCT 19 | 14.5°C | 16.7°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 | 5°C | 9°C |
| February | 0°C | 5°C | 9°C |
| March | 2°C | 7°C | 12°C |
| April | 5°C | 11°C | 17°C |
| May | 8°C | 13°C | 21°C |
| June | 14°C | 19°C | 24°C |
| July | 17°C | 23°C | 30°C |
| August | 17°C | 22°C | 28°C |
| September | 11°C | 18°C | 25°C |
| October | 8°C | 15°C | 21°C |
| November | 3°C | 8°C | 16°C |
| December | 1°C | 5°C | 8°C |
Wilmington: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
Location & Local Information
The Delaware River, which runs through Wilmington, Delaware, is a major waterway that offers various recreational opportunities. However, when it comes to swimming, the river’s water temperature can be quite chilly, especially during the cooler months. In the winter and fall, the water temperature can drop to around 40°F (4°C), making it too cold for comfortable swimming. As spring arrives and the weather warms, the river's temperature begins to rise, typically reaching between 50°F (10°C) and 60°F (15°C) by late spring and early summer.
During the summer months, the water in the Delaware River can warm up to a more comfortable range of about 70°F (21°C) to 75°F (24°C), making it more suitable for swimming, especially in calmer sections of the river. However, due to the river’s strong current and industrial history, swimming in certain parts can be challenging and sometimes unsafe. Many people prefer to enjoy the river through activities like kayaking, canoeing, or boating rather than swimming, as the current and varying depths can make it difficult to safely swim in many areas.
For those looking for a more enjoyable and safer swimming experience, nearby lakes and pools are often preferred, as they tend to maintain more consistent and warmer temperatures, typically ranging from 70°F (21°C) to 80°F (27°C) in the summer. These locations provide an excellent alternative for those seeking a more relaxing swim without the concerns posed by the Delaware River's currents and varying water temperatures.