Barkhamsted Reservoir — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Barkhamsted Reservoir, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Barkhamsted Reservoir today is 16.9°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| JUN 2 | 13.4°C | 17.3°C | |
| JUN 3 | 12.6°C | 17.3°C | |
| JUN 4 | 13.6°C | 17.3°C | |
| JUN 5 | 14.4°C | 17.3°C | |
| JUN 6 | 14.8°C | 17.3°C | |
| JUN 7 | 17.1°C | 17.3°C | |
| JUN 8 | 17.2°C | 17.3°C | |
| JUN 10 | 17.3°C | 16.9°C | |
| JUN 11 | 17.3°C | 16.9°C | |
| JUN 12 | 17.3°C | 17.0°C | |
| JUN 13 | 17.3°C | 17.0°C | |
| JUN 14 | 17.3°C | 17.0°C | |
| JUN 15 | 17.3°C | 17.0°C | |
| JUN 16 | 17.3°C | 17.0°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 | 3°C | 6°C |
| February | 2°C | 4°C | 7°C |
| March | 3°C | 6°C | 8°C |
| April | 4°C | 7°C | 11°C |
| May | 5°C | 10°C | 16°C |
| June | 12°C | 17°C | 22°C |
| July | 18°C | 24°C | 30°C |
| August | 20°C | 23°C | 25°C |
| September | 18°C | 20°C | 22°C |
| October | 13°C | 16°C | 18°C |
| November | 8°C | 12°C | 15°C |
| December | 3°C | 7°C | 10°C |
Barkhamsted Reservoir: Water Temperature by Location
Barkhamsted Reservoir: Weather Forecast
June 9
June 10
June 11
June 12
Location & Local Information
Barkhamsted Reservoir typically runs cold for much of the year because it is a deep, forested drinking-water impoundment. Surface temperatures in winter hover near freezing, roughly 32–39°F (0–4°C). In spring the water slowly warms into the 40s and lower 50s, about 4–12°C, while summer surface temperatures commonly reach the mid‑60s to mid‑70s, roughly 16–24°C, occasionally edging into the upper 70s (24–26°C) during heat waves. Because the reservoir is deep and stratified, deeper water remains much colder year‑round — often in the 40s–50s°F (4–10°C) even when the surface is warm — so temperature can change quickly with depth or in shaded coves.
Swimming at Barkhamsted Reservoir is not permitted. The reservoir is managed primarily as a public drinking‑water source, and prohibitions are in place to protect water quality and public health. In addition to water‑quality concerns, there are safety issues: limited shoreline access, steep drop‑offs, cold deep water that increases hypothermia risk, and no lifeguards or designated beach facilities. For those seeking open‑water swimming in the region, nearby lakes and designated public beaches with lifeguards and water‑quality monitoring are better options.