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 16.4°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| JUL 16 | 16.8°C | 20.3°C | |
| JUL 17 | 16.6°C | 20.3°C | |
| JUL 18 | 16.6°C | 20.3°C | |
| JUL 19 | 16.5°C | 20.3°C | |
| JUL 20 | 16.5°C | 20.3°C | |
| JUL 21 | 16.4°C | 20.3°C | |
| JUL 22 | 16.4°C | 20.3°C | |
| JUL 23 | 16.4°C | 20.3°C | |
| JUL 24 | 20.3°C | 16.6°C | |
| JUL 25 | 20.3°C | 16.8°C | |
| JUL 26 | 20.3°C | 17.0°C | |
| JUL 27 | 20.3°C | 17.2°C | |
| JUL 28 | 20.3°C | 17.4°C | |
| JUL 29 | 20.3°C | 17.6°C | |
| JUL 30 | 20.3°C | 17.8°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
July 24
July 25
July 26
July 27
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.