Western Branch Reservoir — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Western Branch Reservoir, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Western Branch Reservoir today is 17.6°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| OCT 26 | 18.4°C | 19.0°C | |
| OCT 27 | 18.2°C | 19.0°C | |
| OCT 28 | 17.8°C | 19.0°C | |
| OCT 29 | 17.3°C | 19.0°C | |
| OCT 30 | 17.3°C | 19.0°C | |
| OCT 31 | 18.1°C | 19.0°C | |
| NOV 1 | 18.1°C | 11.5°C | |
| NOV 2 | 17.8°C | 11.5°C | |
| NOV 3 | 11.5°C | 17.3°C | |
| NOV 4 | 11.5°C | 17.0°C | |
| NOV 5 | 11.5°C | 16.7°C | |
| NOV 6 | 11.5°C | 16.4°C | |
| NOV 7 | 11.5°C | 16.1°C | |
| NOV 8 | 11.5°C | 15.8°C | |
| NOV 9 | 11.5°C | 15.5°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 | 3°C | 7°C | 9°C |
| February | 1°C | 5°C | 8°C |
| March | 6°C | 10°C | 15°C |
| April | 8°C | 15°C | 23°C |
| May | 15°C | 20°C | 26°C |
| June | 18°C | 23°C | 28°C |
| July | 24°C | 28°C | 32°C |
| August | 23°C | 27°C | 31°C |
| September | 21°C | 25°C | 29°C |
| October | 16°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| November | 6°C | 12°C | 17°C |
| December | 6°C | 9°C | 12°C |
Western Branch Reservoir: Water Temperature by Location
Western Branch Reservoir: Weather Forecast
November 3
November 4
November 5
November 6
November 7
November 8
Location & Local Information
Western Branch Reservoir, a municipal impoundment in southeastern Virginia, experiences the seasonal temperature patterns typical of temperate Coastal Plain lakes. Surface waters in winter commonly cool to roughly 35–45°F (2–7°C), rising through spring into the mid‑40s to mid‑60s°F (7–18°C). In summer the surface often warms into the mid‑70s to low‑80s°F (24–28°C), with occasional spikes toward the mid‑80s°F (around 29°C) on hot spells. The reservoir stratifies in summer so deeper water stays substantially cooler—often around 50–60°F (10–15°C) near the bottom—while autumn brings progressive cooling back toward the 60s–40s°F (15–7°C) range.
Swimming in Western Branch Reservoir is generally not permitted because the impoundment functions as a municipal drinking‑water supply and is managed to protect water quality and public safety. Restrictions reduce contamination risks and limit hazards posed by variable depths, submerged structures and boat traffic. While the reservoir may support permitted activities such as fishing or shoreline access in specified areas, people seeking open‑water swimming should use designated public swimming facilities or bodies of water where swimming is explicitly allowed and lifeguarded.