River Lee — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in the River Lee, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in the River Lee today is 19.9°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 16 | 20.8°C | 20.0°C | |
| JUL 17 | 20.5°C | 20.0°C | |
| JUL 18 | 20.2°C | 20.0°C | |
| JUL 19 | 20.5°C | 20.0°C | |
| JUL 20 | 20.5°C | 20.0°C | |
| JUL 21 | 20.2°C | 20.0°C | |
| JUL 22 | 19.9°C | 20.0°C | |
| JUL 23 | 20.0°C | 20.0°C | |
| JUL 24 | 20.0°C | 19.9°C | |
| JUL 25 | 20.0°C | 19.9°C | |
| JUL 26 | 20.0°C | 19.9°C | |
| JUL 27 | 20.0°C | 19.9°C | |
| JUL 28 | 20.0°C | 19.9°C | |
| JUL 29 | 20.0°C | 19.9°C | |
| JUL 30 | 20.0°C | 19.9°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 | 2°C | 6°C | 9°C |
| February | 3°C | 7°C | 9°C |
| March | 5°C | 9°C | 11°C |
| April | 8°C | 11°C | 14°C |
| May | 9°C | 14°C | 18°C |
| June | 13°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 | 6°C | 10°C |
River Lee: Water Temperature by Location
River Lee: Weather Forecast
July 24
July 25
July 26
July 27
Location & Local Information
Source:
• location Shehy Mountains near Gougane Barra
Mouth:
• location Celtic Sea at Cork Harbour mouth
Length 90 km (56 mi)
The River Lee flows through the heart of Cork City, Ireland, and its water temperature follows a typical seasonal cycle for an Irish river. In the colder winter months, the water temperature generally drops to a chilly range of 6∘C to 9∘C (43∘F to 48∘F). As summer arrives, the river warms up, with temperatures peaking around 15∘C to 18∘C (59∘F to 64∘F). Even at its warmest, the Lee remains quite cool, making a wetsuit advisable for sustained periods in the water.
While swimming is not officially permitted or advised along many stretches of the River Lee, especially in the city center due to strong currents, variable water quality, and weirs, local open-water swimmers do use certain safer spots, such as the area near the Lee Fields upstream. Notably, the river hosts the annual Lee Swim, a popular organized race. Visitors to the area who prefer a safer aquatic activity will find kayaking and rowing popular on the river. Nearby attractions include the famous Blarney Castle and the historic English Market in the city center.