Otra River — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in the Otra River, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in the Otra River today is 19.4°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 14 | 19.7°C | 18.0°C | |
| JUL 15 | 19.7°C | 18.0°C | |
| JUL 16 | 19.9°C | 18.0°C | |
| JUL 17 | 20.2°C | 18.0°C | |
| JUL 18 | 20.2°C | 18.0°C | |
| JUL 19 | 20.2°C | 18.0°C | |
| JUL 20 | 20.1°C | 18.0°C | |
| JUL 21 | 19.4°C | 18.0°C | |
| JUL 22 | 18.0°C | 19.3°C | |
| JUL 23 | 18.0°C | 19.3°C | |
| JUL 24 | 18.0°C | 19.2°C | |
| JUL 25 | 18.0°C | 19.1°C | |
| JUL 26 | 18.0°C | 19.1°C | |
| JUL 27 | 18.0°C | 19.0°C | |
| JUL 28 | 18.0°C | 18.9°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 | 2°C | 5°C |
| February | 0°C | 2°C | 5°C |
| March | 0°C | 3°C | 6°C |
| April | 3°C | 7°C | 9°C |
| May | 7°C | 11°C | 16°C |
| June | 11°C | 16°C | 20°C |
| July | 13°C | 18°C | 22°C |
| August | 12°C | 17°C | 21°C |
| September | 9°C | 14°C | 18°C |
| October | 5°C | 9°C | 11°C |
| November | 2°C | 6°C | 9°C |
| December | 0°C | 3°C | 6°C |
Otra River: Water Temperature by Location
Otra River: Weather Forecast
July 22
July 23
July 24
July 25
Location & Local Information
Source:
• location Setesdalsheiene, Bykle, Norway
• coordinates 59.6284°N 07.4321°E
• elevation 896 metres (2,940 ft)
Mouth:
• location Skagerrak, Kristiansand, Norway
• coordinates 58.1434°N 08.0134°E
• elevation 0 metres (0 ft)
Length 245 km (152 mi)
The Otra (Norwegian: Otra) flows through Agder county from the Setesdal valley to the sea at Kristiansand, and its water temperature varies considerably by season and location. In midsummer, particularly in lowland stretches and slow-moving bays, surface temperatures typically range from about 14–20 °C (57–68 °F), and on unusually warm days shallow spots can approach or slightly exceed 22 °C (72 °F). In the upper, fast-flowing reaches and during spring snowmelt, temperatures are much lower, commonly 4–10 °C (39–50 °F) in late spring and early summer. Autumn values often fall to roughly 6–12 °C (43–54 °F), while winter water temperatures are close to freezing, often between 0–3 °C (32–37 °F), with ice or very cold flows in parts of the river.
Swimming in the Otra is generally permitted and practiced locally, especially in calmer, lower sections and near Kristiansand where access is easy. However, swimmers must be cautious: rapid currents, fluctuating flows from hydroelectric releases, submerged hazards and cold temperatures can create dangerous conditions, and some areas near dams or intake structures are officially restricted for safety. Water quality is usually good, but local advisories or signs should be followed, and the risk of cold-water shock and hypothermia means protective clothing or brief entries are advisable outside the warmest summer spells.