River Shannon — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in the River Shannon, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in the River Shannon today is 16.1°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| JUN 25 | 16.0°C | 18.5°C | |
| JUN 26 | 16.6°C | 18.5°C | |
| JUN 27 | 17.4°C | 18.5°C | |
| JUN 28 | 18.0°C | 18.5°C | |
| JUN 29 | 18.0°C | 18.5°C | |
| JUN 30 | 17.1°C | 18.5°C | |
| JUL 1 | 16.2°C | 19.0°C | |
| JUL 2 | 16.1°C | 19.0°C | |
| JUL 3 | 19.0°C | 16.2°C | |
| JUL 4 | 19.0°C | 16.4°C | |
| JUL 5 | 19.0°C | 16.5°C | |
| JUL 6 | 19.0°C | 16.7°C | |
| JUL 7 | 19.0°C | 16.8°C | |
| JUL 8 | 19.0°C | 17.0°C | |
| JUL 9 | 19.0°C | 17.1°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 | 19°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 | 7°C | 11°C |
| December | 1°C | 5°C | 8°C |
River Shannon: Water Temperature by Location
River Shannon: Weather Forecast
July 3
July 4
July 5
July 6
July 7
Location & Local Information
Source Shannon Pot
• location Glangevlin, Cuilcagh Mountain, County Cavan
• coordinates 54.235°N 7.92°W
• elevation 100
Mouth Shannon Estuary
• location Limerick
• coordinates 52.657°N 8.66°W
Length 360 kilometres (220 mi)
The River Shannon, Ireland’s longest river, flows for over 350 km from County Cavan to the Shannon Estuary in Limerick. Its temperature varies with the seasons and the section of the river, influenced by local climate and water depth. In winter, average surface temperatures are around 4–6°C (39–43°F), while in summer they typically rise to 15–18°C (59–64°F). Shallow stretches and backwaters can occasionally reach 19°C (66°F) during prolonged warm periods, but the main channel remains cooler due to continuous flow and depth. The Shannon’s wide, slow-moving waters create a mix of fresh and mild conditions ideal for boating, fishing, and other recreation during Ireland’s milder months.
Swimming is permitted along much of the River Shannon, though it is recommended only in safe, known areas due to varying currents and boat traffic. During summer, spots near Lanesborough, Athlone, and Killaloe attract swimmers and triathletes, with wetsuits common outside peak heat periods. Water quality is generally good, but swimmers should always be mindful of changing weather and river levels. Beyond swimming, the Shannon is renowned for cruising, kayaking, and wildlife watching, with towns like Athlone, Clonmacnoise, and Carrick-on-Shannon offering historic sites, walking trails, and riverside scenery that showcase the tranquil heart of Ireland.