River Liffey — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in the River Liffey, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in the River Liffey today is 15.3°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| SEP 16 | 16.5°C | 16.0°C | |
| SEP 17 | 16.9°C | 16.0°C | |
| SEP 18 | 16.8°C | 16.0°C | |
| SEP 19 | 14.9°C | 16.0°C | |
| SEP 20 | 14.5°C | 16.0°C | |
| SEP 21 | 14.5°C | 16.0°C | |
| SEP 22 | 13.7°C | 16.0°C | |
| SEP 23 | 15.3°C | 16.0°C | |
| SEP 24 | 16.0°C | 15.3°C | |
| SEP 25 | 16.0°C | 15.4°C | |
| SEP 26 | 16.0°C | 15.4°C | |
| SEP 27 | 16.0°C | 15.4°C | |
| SEP 28 | 16.0°C | 15.5°C | |
| SEP 29 | 16.0°C | 15.5°C | |
| SEP 30 | 16.0°C | 15.5°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 | 1°C | 5°C | 8°C |
| February | 1°C | 5°C | 8°C |
| March | 2°C | 6°C | 9°C |
| April | 6°C | 9°C | 12°C |
| May | 9°C | 14°C | 18°C |
| June | 13°C | 18°C | 23°C |
| July | 15°C | 19°C | 24°C |
| August | 14°C | 18°C | 23°C |
| September | 11°C | 16°C | 20°C |
| October | 9°C | 12°C | 15°C |
| November | 4°C | 8°C | 11°C |
| December | 1°C | 5°C | 9°C |
River Liffey: Water Temperature by Location
River Liffey: Weather Forecast
September 23
September 24
September 25
September 26
September 27
Location & Local Information
Source Kippure
• location Sally Gap, County Wicklow
• coordinates 53°09′22″N 6°17′17″W
• elevation 500 m (1,600 ft)
Mouth Dublin Bay, Irish Sea
• location Dublin
• coordinates 53.343316°N 6.181303°W
• elevation 0 m (0 ft)
Length 132 km (82 mi)
The River Liffey, which flows through the centre of Dublin, exhibits a cold temperature profile typical of Irish waterways. Throughout the year, the water temperature in the tidal section near the city centre ranges from a chilly average of approximately 8∘C (46∘F) in late winter/early spring to a peak of about 15∘C (59∘F) during the height of summer. This consistently cool water temperature means swimming is generally only undertaken by dedicated open-water enthusiasts, and often with the aid of a wetsuit.
Direct recreational swimming in the Liffey is generally not advised and is largely prohibited in the city centre due to historic issues with water quality, particularly the presence of sewage and stormwater overflows during heavy rain. The one major exception is the famous annual Liffey Swim, an organised competitive event that has taken place for over a century, which is timed to coincide with high tide to help mitigate pollution. Aside from this, the river is best enjoyed from its banks, which offer a perfect vantage point for exploring nearby attractions like the Ha'penny Bridge, the Custom House, and the Jeanie Johnston Famine ship replica.