Thornton Steward Reservoir — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Thornton Steward Reservoir, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Thornton Steward Reservoir today is 18.1°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| JUL 16 | 18.5°C | 21.3°C | |
| JUL 17 | 18.3°C | 21.3°C | |
| JUL 18 | 18.3°C | 21.3°C | |
| JUL 19 | 18.3°C | 21.3°C | |
| JUL 20 | 18.3°C | 21.3°C | |
| JUL 21 | 18.1°C | 21.3°C | |
| JUL 22 | 18.1°C | 21.3°C | |
| JUL 23 | 18.1°C | 21.3°C | |
| JUL 24 | 21.3°C | 18.3°C | |
| JUL 25 | 21.3°C | 18.4°C | |
| JUL 26 | 21.3°C | 18.6°C | |
| JUL 27 | 21.3°C | 18.7°C | |
| JUL 28 | 21.3°C | 18.9°C | |
| JUL 29 | 21.3°C | 19.1°C | |
| JUL 30 | 21.3°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 | 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 | 17°C | 22°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 |
Thornton Steward Reservoir: Water Temperature by Location
Thornton Steward Reservoir: Weather Forecast
July 24
July 25
July 26
July 27
Location & Local Information
#North Yorkshire
Thornton Steward Reservoir, set in Wensleydale in North Yorkshire, tends to be cool year-round. Surface temperatures typically range from about 2–6 °C (36–43 °F) in winter, rise to roughly 6–12 °C (43–54 °F) in spring, and can reach 12–20 °C (54–68 °F) in the warmest summer months, though deeper water remains significantly colder throughout the year. Autumn temperatures generally fall back into the 8–12 °C (46–54 °F) band as air temperatures decline. These figures are approximate and vary with weather, depth and exposure, so even on warm days the reservoir can feel chilly.
Swimming at Thornton Steward is generally prohibited because the reservoir is part of the local drinking-water supply and because of safety hazards such as cold water, steep banks and hidden currents; visitors are advised to follow on-site signage and the operator’s guidance. The surrounding area, however, offers plenty of outdoor interest: scenic walks in the Yorkshire Dales, the nearby market town of Leyburn, historic Bolton Castle and the waterfalls at Aysgarth are all popular attractions for visitors who prefer land-based activities.