Smiddy Shaw Reservoir — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Smiddy Shaw Reservoir, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Smiddy Shaw 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| JUL 16 | 17.1°C | 20.2°C | |
| JUL 17 | 17.0°C | 20.2°C | |
| JUL 18 | 17.0°C | 20.2°C | |
| JUL 19 | 17.0°C | 20.2°C | |
| JUL 20 | 17.0°C | 20.2°C | |
| JUL 21 | 16.9°C | 20.2°C | |
| JUL 22 | 16.9°C | 20.2°C | |
| JUL 23 | 16.9°C | 20.2°C | |
| JUL 24 | 20.2°C | 17.1°C | |
| JUL 25 | 20.2°C | 17.2°C | |
| JUL 26 | 20.2°C | 17.4°C | |
| JUL 27 | 20.2°C | 17.6°C | |
| JUL 28 | 20.2°C | 17.7°C | |
| JUL 29 | 20.2°C | 17.9°C | |
| JUL 30 | 20.2°C | 18.1°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 | 4°C | 7°C |
| February | 0°C | 4°C | 7°C |
| March | 2°C | 6°C | 9°C |
| April | 5°C | 9°C | 12°C |
| May | 8°C | 14°C | 20°C |
| June | 12°C | 19°C | 25°C |
| July | 14°C | 20°C | 26°C |
| August | 16°C | 21°C | 26°C |
| September | 12°C | 18°C | 23°C |
| October | 8°C | 12°C | 15°C |
| November | 3°C | 8°C | 11°C |
| December | 0°C | 3°C | 7°C |
Smiddy Shaw Reservoir: Water Temperature by Location
Smiddy Shaw Reservoir: Weather Forecast
July 24
July 25
July 26
July 27
Location & Local Information
#County Durham
Smiddy Shaw Reservoir, set in County Durham's uplands, is a small upland impoundment whose water temperatures vary through the year. In winter surface temperatures commonly fall to around 4–7 °C (39–45 °F) and can be only slightly warmer in early spring, 6–10 °C (43–50 °F). By late spring and summer the reservoir may reach 12–18 °C (54–64 °F) at the surface on warm days, while autumn typically sees a decline to 8–13 °C (46–55 °F). Deeper water remains colder year round, so overall thermal stratification and cool conditions are typical even in summer.
Formal swimming is generally not promoted at Smiddy Shaw: water companies and land managers often discourage bathing because of cold-water shock, hidden hazards and the reservoir’s role in public water supply, so anyone choosing to swim does so at their own risk and should take strong safety precautions. The area, however, is attractive for walkers, birdwatchers and cyclists, with nearby moorland, reservoir-side paths and other local attractions such as the larger Derwent Reservoir and popular upland trails.