Orkla River — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in the Orkla River, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in the Orkla River today is 15.2°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 15 | 15.3°C | 17.0°C | |
| JUL 16 | 15.3°C | 17.0°C | |
| JUL 17 | 16.0°C | 17.0°C | |
| JUL 18 | 16.0°C | 17.0°C | |
| JUL 19 | 16.1°C | 17.0°C | |
| JUL 20 | 16.1°C | 17.0°C | |
| JUL 21 | 15.2°C | 17.0°C | |
| JUL 22 | 15.2°C | 17.0°C | |
| JUL 23 | 17.0°C | 15.3°C | |
| JUL 24 | 17.0°C | 15.4°C | |
| JUL 25 | 17.0°C | 15.5°C | |
| JUL 26 | 17.0°C | 15.6°C | |
| JUL 27 | 17.0°C | 15.7°C | |
| JUL 28 | 17.0°C | 15.7°C | |
| JUL 29 | 17.0°C | 15.8°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 | 1°C | 4°C |
| February | 0°C | 1°C | 4°C |
| March | 0°C | 1°C | 4°C |
| April | 0°C | 2°C | 5°C |
| May | 2°C | 7°C | 11°C |
| June | 9°C | 14°C | 18°C |
| July | 12°C | 17°C | 21°C |
| August | 10°C | 15°C | 19°C |
| September | 7°C | 11°C | 16°C |
| October | 3°C | 7°C | 9°C |
| November | 0°C | 3°C | 5°C |
| December | 0°C | 1°C | 4°C |
Orkla River: Water Temperature by Location
Orkla River: Weather Forecast
July 23
July 24
July 25
July 26
July 27
Location & Local Information
Source Orkelsjøen
• location Oppdal Municipality, Trøndelag
• coordinates 62.5102°N 09.8775°E
• elevation 1,058 metres (3,471 ft)
Mouth Orkanger
• location Orkland Municipality, Trøndelag
• coordinates 63.31927°N 09.841218°E
• elevation 0 metres (0 ft)
Length 179 km (111 mi)
The Orkla River (Norwegian: Orkla) flows through Trøndelag and shows clear seasonal variation in water temperature. In winter the river commonly sits close to freezing, roughly 0–3 °C (32–37 °F), especially in faster, deeper sections. During spring snowmelt temperatures typically rise to about 3–8 °C (37–46 °F) but flows can be high and cold. In summer the lower, slower stretches can warm to around 10–18 °C (50–64 °F), while upstream and shaded parts often remain cooler, around 6–12 °C (43–54 °F). Autumn brings a steady cooling back toward 4–9 °C (39–48 °F), with temperatures and conditions changing quickly as rains and early frosts arrive. Local factors such as depth, shading, tributary inflows and recent weather strongly affect measurements at any given spot.
Swimming in the Orkla is generally allowed, reflecting Norway’s broad public access traditions, but suitability depends on location and season. Many people swim recreationally in calmer, shallow bends and designated spots in summer when temperatures are mild, while colder months present risks of cold-water shock and hypothermia. Spring melt and heavy rain create strong currents and higher turbidity, making swimming unsafe then. Additionally, some stretches may be subject to local restrictions, fishing rights or private land access rules. Basic precautions — checking currents, using a buddy, and wearing a wetsuit in cooler water — are advisable.