South Fork Rivanna River Reservoir — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in South Fork Rivanna River Reservoir, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in South Fork Rivanna River Reservoir today is 19.1°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 65°F (18°C) to 68°F (20°C). This is already quite warm water, which is ideal for most people. Swimming becomes comfortable, and prolonged stays in the water do not cause discomfort. This temperature is perfect for family trips and for those who prefer warmer water. It is also comfortable for water sports such as surfing or swimming. 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 6 | 20.4°C | 19.5°C | |
| OCT 7 | 21.0°C | 19.5°C | |
| OCT 8 | 19.6°C | 19.5°C | |
| OCT 9 | 19.1°C | 19.5°C | |
| OCT 10 | 19.6°C | 19.5°C | |
| OCT 11 | 19.5°C | 19.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 19.3°C | 19.5°C | |
| OCT 13 | 18.8°C | 19.5°C | |
| OCT 14 | 19.5°C | 19.1°C | |
| OCT 15 | 19.5°C | 19.1°C | |
| OCT 16 | 19.5°C | 19.2°C | |
| OCT 17 | 19.5°C | 19.2°C | |
| OCT 18 | 19.5°C | 19.2°C | |
| OCT 19 | 19.5°C | 19.2°C | |
| OCT 20 | 19.5°C | 19.2°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 | 4°C | 6°C |
| February | 1°C | 4°C | 7°C |
| March | 2°C | 9°C | 16°C |
| April | 8°C | 14°C | 20°C |
| May | 16°C | 21°C | 26°C |
| June | 18°C | 22°C | 26°C |
| July | 21°C | 25°C | 29°C |
| August | 21°C | 25°C | 29°C |
| September | 21°C | 24°C | 28°C |
| October | 16°C | 20°C | 23°C |
| November | 8°C | 12°C | 16°C |
| December | 3°C | 7°C | 10°C |
South Fork Rivanna River Reservoir: Water Temperature by Location
South Fork Rivanna River Reservoir: Weather Forecast
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
October 18
Location & Local Information
The South Fork Rivanna Reservoir, which serves as part of the municipal water supply near Charlottesville, experiences typical mid-Atlantic seasonal water temperatures that vary with depth, weather and inflow. In winter surface temperatures commonly hover near freezing to the mid‑40s °F (about 0–7 °C). Spring sees a steady rise, with surface readings often in the mid‑40s to mid‑60s °F (roughly 7–18 °C) as air temperatures warm. Summer surface temperatures are usually the warmest, frequently ranging from the high 60s to low 80s °F (about 20–28 °C) in calm, shallow areas, while deeper zones remain noticeably cooler. In autumn the surface tends to cool back into the 50s and 60s °F (around 10–20 °C) as fall weather sets in.
Because the South Fork Rivanna Reservoir is managed primarily as a source of drinking water, swimming is generally not permitted; the restriction helps protect water quality and public health and reduces risks associated with unsupervised open‑water bathing. Recreational use tends to be limited and regulated, so anglers and boaters should follow posted rules and local authority guidance rather than assume casual swimming is allowed.