River Ness — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in the River Ness, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in the River Ness today is 11.9°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| SEP 16 | 12.5°C | 13.0°C | |
| SEP 17 | 12.2°C | 13.0°C | |
| SEP 18 | 12.0°C | 13.0°C | |
| SEP 19 | 12.5°C | 13.0°C | |
| SEP 20 | 12.2°C | 13.0°C | |
| SEP 21 | 11.9°C | 13.0°C | |
| SEP 22 | 11.6°C | 13.0°C | |
| SEP 23 | 11.9°C | 13.0°C | |
| SEP 24 | 13.0°C | 12.0°C | |
| SEP 25 | 13.0°C | 12.0°C | |
| SEP 26 | 13.0°C | 12.1°C | |
| SEP 27 | 13.0°C | 12.1°C | |
| SEP 28 | 13.0°C | 12.2°C | |
| SEP 29 | 13.0°C | 12.2°C | |
| SEP 30 | 13.0°C | 12.3°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 | 3°C | 6°C |
| March | 0°C | 3°C | 7°C |
| April | 3°C | 7°C | 10°C |
| May | 8°C | 12°C | 17°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 | 13°C | 18°C |
| October | 5°C | 9°C | 11°C |
| November | 2°C | 6°C | 9°C |
| December | 0°C | 4°C | 7°C |
River Ness: Water Temperature by Location
River Ness: Weather Forecast
September 23
September 24
September 25
September 26
September 27
Location & Local Information
Source:
• location Loch Dochfour
• coordinates 57°25′30″N 4°18′45″W
Mouth:
• location Moray Firth
• coordinates 57°29′43″N 4°14′10″W
Length 6.2 mi (10.0 km)
The River Ness, which flows from Loch Ness and through Inverness before meeting the Moray Firth, is fed by the deep, cold waters of the loch, resulting in a perpetually low temperature. Throughout the year, the river is significantly cold, with summer surface temperatures perhaps reaching a maximum of around 10∘C to 12∘C (50∘F to 54∘F) on a warm day. In the winter, the temperature remains stubbornly cold, often sitting in the range of 5∘C to 8∘C (41∘F to 46∘F).
Recreational swimming in the River Ness itself is generally not encouraged. While there are no outright bans, the combination of very cold temperatures—posing a serious risk of cold water shock and hypothermia—and strong currents, especially at certain points, makes it hazardous for casual bathers. For those seeking safe wild swimming, there are numerous shallower and slightly warmer lochs nearby. The river's banks, however, offer beautiful walks, particularly around the Ness Islands, and close by you can explore the historic Inverness Castle viewpoint, Inverness Cathedral, and the famous Loch Ness itself.