Durance River — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in the Durance River, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in the Durance River today is 15.7°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 3 | 17.6°C | 11.0°C | |
| OCT 4 | 18.1°C | 11.0°C | |
| OCT 5 | 17.8°C | 11.0°C | |
| OCT 6 | 17.6°C | 11.0°C | |
| OCT 7 | 17.3°C | 11.0°C | |
| OCT 8 | 17.2°C | 11.0°C | |
| OCT 9 | 16.8°C | 11.0°C | |
| OCT 10 | 15.7°C | 11.0°C | |
| OCT 11 | 11.0°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 11.0°C | 15.2°C | |
| OCT 13 | 11.0°C | 15.0°C | |
| OCT 14 | 11.0°C | 14.8°C | |
| OCT 15 | 11.0°C | 14.5°C | |
| OCT 16 | 11.0°C | 14.3°C | |
| OCT 17 | 11.0°C | 14.1°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 | 2°C | 6°C | 9°C |
| February | 2°C | 6°C | 9°C |
| March | 4°C | 8°C | 10°C |
| April | 7°C | 10°C | 14°C |
| May | 9°C | 13°C | 18°C |
| June | 10°C | 15°C | 20°C |
| July | 13°C | 18°C | 24°C |
| August | 13°C | 18°C | 24°C |
| September | 10°C | 15°C | 19°C |
| October | 8°C | 11°C | 14°C |
| November | 5°C | 9°C | 11°C |
| December | 2°C | 6°C | 9°C |
Durance River: Water Temperature by Location
🇫🇷 France > Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur
- Aubignosc15.0°C
- Briançon10.6°C
- Cavaillon17.4°C
- Château-Arnoux-Saint-Auban15.4°C
- Embrun12.9°C
- Ganagobie15.9°C
- L'Escale15.4°C
- La Brillanne16.3°C
- La Roche-de-Rame12.1°C
- Mallemort16.7°C
- Manosque16.2°C
- Montgenèvre8.9°C
- Peyrolles-en-Provence16.9°C
- Rochebrune14.0°C
- Rognonas17.3°C
- Saint-André-d'Embrun12.8°C
- Saint-Clément-sur-Durance12.2°C
- Saint-Paul-lez-Durance15.9°C
- Salignac15.9°C
- Sisteron15.0°C
- Tallard14.1°C
- Thèze15.4°C
- Volonne15.2°C
Durance River: Weather Forecast
October 11
October 12
October 13
October 14
October 15
Location & Local Information
Source:
• location Cottian Alps
• elevation 2,300 m (7,500 ft)
Mouth:
• location Rhône
• coordinates 43°55′21″N 4°44′35″E
Length 323 km (201 mi)[1]
Basin size 14,472 km2 (5,588 sq mi)
Discharge:
• average 188 m3/s (6,600 cu ft/s)
The Durance River, one of the main rivers in southeastern France, flows from the Alps to the Rhône and is known for its varying conditions. Due to its source in the mountains, the Durance remains relatively cool year-round, with water temperatures typically ranging from 12°C to 18°C (54°F to 64°F) during summer. This makes it less ideal for comfortable swimming, especially for those sensitive to cold water. However, some sections, especially lower areas where the river flows more gently, are more accessible for those seeking a refreshing dip.
While the Durance has sections where swimming is possible, it is generally recommended to exercise caution. The river’s flow can be fast, particularly in areas close to the Alps or where there are hydroelectric plants that regulate water levels. Popular recreational areas like the Lac de Serre-Ponçon, a reservoir fed by the Durance, provide a safer option for water activities, offering warmer and calmer waters than the river itself. Visitors can enjoy swimming, kayaking, and other water sports in this scenic alpine setting.