Leighton Reservoir — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Leighton Reservoir, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Leighton Reservoir today is 13.4°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 54°F (12°C) to 60°F (15°C). The water is significantly warmer, and swimming becomes possible for most people. However, caution may still be required for prolonged stays in the water, as extended exposure can cause discomfort. This is a suitable temperature range for short swims and for those accustomed to cooler water. For more comfortable swimming, it is recommended to use proper gear. 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| SEP 16 | 14.9°C | 19.0°C | |
| SEP 17 | 14.7°C | 19.0°C | |
| SEP 18 | 14.8°C | 19.0°C | |
| SEP 19 | 14.4°C | 19.0°C | |
| SEP 20 | 14.4°C | 19.0°C | |
| SEP 21 | 14.2°C | 19.0°C | |
| SEP 22 | 14.0°C | 19.0°C | |
| SEP 23 | 13.4°C | 19.0°C | |
| SEP 24 | 19.0°C | 13.7°C | |
| SEP 25 | 19.0°C | 14.0°C | |
| SEP 26 | 19.0°C | 14.2°C | |
| SEP 27 | 19.0°C | 14.5°C | |
| SEP 28 | 19.0°C | 14.8°C | |
| SEP 29 | 19.0°C | 15.1°C | |
| SEP 30 | 19.0°C | 15.4°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 | 5°C | 8°C |
| February | 1°C | 5°C | 8°C |
| March | 3°C | 7°C | 10°C |
| April | 6°C | 10°C | 13°C |
| May | 9°C | 15°C | 21°C |
| June | 12°C | 19°C | 26°C |
| July | 15°C | 21°C | 27°C |
| August | 15°C | 21°C | 27°C |
| September | 13°C | 19°C | 24°C |
| October | 9°C | 13°C | 17°C |
| November | 4°C | 8°C | 12°C |
| December | 0°C | 4°C | 8°C |
Leighton Reservoir: Water Temperature by Location
Leighton Reservoir: Weather Forecast
September 23
September 24
September 25
September 26
September 27
Location & Local Information
#North Yorkshire
Leighton Reservoir is an upland water body in North Yorkshire whose temperature reflects its elevation and depth. Typical seasonal surface temperatures range from around 0–4 °C (32–39 °F) in winter, 4–10 °C (39–50 °F) in spring, 10–16 °C (50–61 °F) in summer and 6–10 °C (43–50 °F) in autumn. These figures can vary with calm sunny spells or prolonged cold periods, and deeper water remains colder year-round. Cold shock and rapidly changing conditions make the reservoir feel much colder than a sheltered lake of similar air temperature.
There are no formal swimming facilities or lifeguards at Leighton Reservoir, and swimming is generally discouraged because it is a working reservoir with steep banks, variable depths, submerged structures and operational flows. Nevertheless some experienced wild swimmers visit in fair weather, accepting the risks. The surrounding Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty offers good walking, birdwatching and fishing opportunities, and nearby attractions include Pateley Bridge, Gouthwaite Reservoir and scenic moorland routes.