Cow Green Reservoir — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Cow Green Reservoir, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Cow Green Reservoir today is 9.4°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
❌ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 47°F (8°C) to 50°F (10°C). This is still cool water, suitable only for experienced swimmers or those accustomed to cold water. Swimming in such conditions is possible, but not recommended for prolonged periods. Extra caution should be taken during extended exposure, as the cold water can cause heat loss and lead to hypothermia. For added comfort, special clothing can be used. 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 7 | 10.3°C | 11.0°C | |
| OCT 8 | 10.2°C | 11.0°C | |
| OCT 9 | 10.5°C | 11.0°C | |
| OCT 10 | 10.3°C | 11.0°C | |
| OCT 11 | 10.1°C | 11.0°C | |
| OCT 12 | 9.7°C | 11.0°C | |
| OCT 13 | 9.3°C | 11.0°C | |
| OCT 14 | 9.1°C | 11.0°C | |
| OCT 15 | 11.0°C | 9.5°C | |
| OCT 16 | 11.0°C | 9.6°C | |
| OCT 17 | 11.0°C | 9.6°C | |
| OCT 18 | 11.0°C | 9.7°C | |
| OCT 19 | 11.0°C | 9.8°C | |
| OCT 20 | 11.0°C | 9.9°C | |
| OCT 21 | 11.0°C | 10.0°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 | 0°C | 3°C | 6°C |
| February | 0°C | 3°C | 6°C |
| March | 1°C | 5°C | 8°C |
| April | 4°C | 8°C | 11°C |
| May | 7°C | 14°C | 19°C |
| June | 11°C | 18°C | 24°C |
| July | 13°C | 20°C | 25°C |
| August | 13°C | 19°C | 25°C |
| September | 11°C | 17°C | 22°C |
| October | 7°C | 11°C | 14°C |
| November | 3°C | 7°C | 10°C |
| December | 0°C | 3°C | 6°C |
Cow Green Reservoir: Water Temperature by Location
Cow Green Reservoir: Weather Forecast
October 15
October 16
October 17
October 18
October 19
Location & Local Information
#Cumbria
Cow Green Reservoir is a high, exposed upland lake in Upper Teesdale, so its water stays cold for most of the year. Typical seasonal surface temperatures range from around 0–6 °C (32–43 °F) in winter, 4–10 °C (39–50 °F) through spring and autumn, and roughly 8–15 °C (46–59 °F) at the warmest in summer. These figures vary with weather, wind and depth; deeper or shaded sections remain noticeably cooler even in warm spells. Cold, deep water, sudden drop-offs and unpredictable outflows make immersion risky for unprepared swimmers.
Swimming at Cow Green is not actively promoted and is generally discouraged. The reservoir sits within sensitive conservation land and is managed primarily for water supply and habitat protection, so official facilities and lifeguards are absent. Visitors can enjoy views and cautious shoreline paddling, but full swimming carries safety and environmental concerns. Nearby attractions include the dramatic Teesdale scenery, the Pennine Way, Moor House–Upper Teesdale National Nature Reserve with rare alpine plants, and waterfalls such as High Force a short drive away.