Loch Ericht — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Loch Ericht, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Loch Ericht today is 15.7°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| AUG 6 | 15.8°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 7 | 15.8°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 8 | 15.8°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 9 | 15.8°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 10 | 15.8°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 11 | 15.8°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 12 | 15.7°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 13 | 15.7°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 14 | 19.0°C | 15.9°C | |
| AUG 15 | 19.0°C | 16.0°C | |
| AUG 16 | 19.0°C | 16.2°C | |
| AUG 17 | 19.0°C | 16.4°C | |
| AUG 18 | 19.0°C | 16.5°C | |
| AUG 19 | 19.0°C | 16.7°C | |
| AUG 20 | 19.0°C | 16.9°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 | 2°C | 5°C |
| February | 0°C | 2°C | 5°C |
| March | 1°C | 5°C | 8°C |
| April | 4°C | 8°C | 11°C |
| May | 7°C | 12°C | 18°C |
| June | 11°C | 19°C | 27°C |
| July | 14°C | 20°C | 26°C |
| August | 13°C | 19°C | 24°C |
| September | 10°C | 15°C | 21°C |
| October | 6°C | 10°C | 13°C |
| November | 3°C | 7°C | 10°C |
| December | 0°C | 4°C | 7°C |
Loch Ericht: Water Temperature by Location
Loch Ericht: Weather Forecast
August 14
August 15
August 16
August 17
August 18
August 19
Location & Local Information
Loch Ericht is a long, narrow freshwater lake situated between Perthshire and Inverness-shire in the Scottish Highlands. Lying amid high mountains, it holds cold, clear water that stays cool throughout the year. In winter, the surface temperature typically drops to around 3–5 °C (37–41 °F), rising gradually in spring to about 7–9 °C (45–48 °F). During summer, even on warm days, the loch rarely exceeds 13–15 °C (55–59 °F), while deeper layers remain close to 5 °C (41 °F). By autumn, the water cools again toward 8–10 °C (46–50 °F), maintaining a consistently cold temperature profile typical of upland Highland lakes.
Swimming in Loch Ericht is permitted, but it is best suited for experienced open-water swimmers because of its great depth, low temperature, and exposure to sudden changes in weather. The water is clean and scenic, with calm stretches along sheltered bays that can be pleasant for short swims in summer, though wetsuits are strongly advised year-round. The loch also attracts visitors for fishing, kayaking, and hiking along its rugged shores. Nearby attractions include the village of Dalwhinnie, known for its whisky distillery, and the surrounding mountains of the Cairngorms National Park, offering impressive views and outdoor adventure opportunities.