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 11.2°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
❌ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 50°F (10°C) to 54°F (12°C). The water is slightly warmer, but still cool for most people. Swimming in such conditions is possible, but for most people, the time spent in the water should be limited to avoid hypothermia. Even experienced swimmers may feel discomfort if they stay in the water for too long. To improve comfort and safety, a wetsuit can be used. 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 28 | 11.9°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 29 | 11.1°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 30 | 11.6°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 31 | 11.8°C | 13.0°C | |
| NOV 1 | 12.0°C | 8.2°C | |
| NOV 2 | 11.2°C | 8.2°C | |
| NOV 3 | 11.4°C | 8.2°C | |
| NOV 4 | 11.2°C | 8.2°C | |
| NOV 5 | 8.2°C | 11.1°C | |
| NOV 6 | 8.2°C | 10.9°C | |
| NOV 7 | 8.2°C | 10.8°C | |
| NOV 8 | 8.2°C | 10.6°C | |
| NOV 9 | 8.2°C | 10.5°C | |
| NOV 10 | 8.2°C | 10.3°C | |
| NOV 11 | 8.2°C | 10.2°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 | 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
November 5
November 6
November 7
November 8
November 9
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.