River Itchen — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in the River Itchen, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in the River Itchen today is 20.3°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
✅ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 68°F (20°C) to 74°F (23°C). The water is warm and pleasant for swimming, and in this range, one can stay in the water for extended periods without the risk of hypothermia. This is the ideal temperature for relaxation, swimming, and water sports. Families with children, as well as outdoor enthusiasts, will enjoy swimming and time spent in the water. For most people, this is the optimal temperature for a comfortable beach experience. 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 | 22.1°C | 20.0°C | |
| JUL 17 | 21.0°C | 20.0°C | |
| JUL 18 | 21.0°C | 20.0°C | |
| JUL 19 | 21.0°C | 20.0°C | |
| JUL 20 | 21.0°C | 20.0°C | |
| JUL 21 | 20.3°C | 20.0°C | |
| JUL 22 | 20.3°C | 20.0°C | |
| JUL 24 | 20.0°C | 20.3°C | |
| JUL 25 | 20.0°C | 20.3°C | |
| JUL 26 | 20.0°C | 20.3°C | |
| JUL 27 | 20.0°C | 20.2°C | |
| JUL 28 | 20.0°C | 20.2°C | |
| JUL 29 | 20.0°C | 20.2°C | |
| JUL 30 | 20.0°C | 20.2°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 | 2°C | 6°C | 9°C |
| February | 3°C | 7°C | 9°C |
| March | 5°C | 9°C | 11°C |
| April | 7°C | 11°C | 14°C |
| May | 9°C | 14°C | 18°C |
| June | 12°C | 19°C | 24°C |
| July | 16°C | 20°C | 25°C |
| August | 15°C | 19°C | 24°C |
| September | 13°C | 18°C | 22°C |
| October | 9°C | 13°C | 16°C |
| November | 5°C | 8°C | 11°C |
| December | 3°C | 7°C | 9°C |
River Itchen: Water Temperature by Location
River Itchen: Weather Forecast
July 23
July 24
July 25
July 26
July 27
Location & Local Information
Source:
• location south of New Cheriton, Kilmeston, Hampshire, England
• coordinates 51.0426°N 1.1603°W
Mouth Southampton Water
• location Southampton, Hampshire
• coordinates 50°54′19″N 1°23′08″W
• elevation 0 metres
Length 26 miles (42 km)
The River Itchen flows through the county of Hampshire in southern England, from the chalk downs near Cheriton to the port city of Southampton. Its clear, spring-fed waters remain cool and stable throughout the year, typical of chalk streams. In winter, the river usually holds a temperature of around 7–9 °C (45–48 °F), rising slightly to about 10–12 °C (50–54 °F) in spring. During the summer months, the surface water can reach 15–17 °C (59–63 °F) in calm stretches, though shaded areas and fast-flowing sections stay cooler. By autumn, the temperature generally returns to around 10–12 °C (50–54 °F), maintaining a refreshing and clean quality that supports the river’s rich wildlife.
Swimming in the River Itchen is permitted in some stretches, and its clarity makes it a popular spot for wild swimming enthusiasts. The water quality is generally high, but swimmers must take care to avoid private fishing areas and respect conservation zones. Wetsuits are often worn outside midsummer due to the river’s naturally cool temperature. The Itchen Navigation Trail follows much of the river’s course, offering scenic walks and cycle routes. Nearby attractions include the historic city of Winchester, the South Downs National Park, and the riverside meadows and nature reserves that line the valley.