River Spey — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in the River Spey, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in the River Spey today is 16.5°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| JUL 16 | 16.8°C | 18.0°C | |
| JUL 17 | 16.6°C | 18.0°C | |
| JUL 18 | 16.7°C | 18.0°C | |
| JUL 19 | 16.6°C | 18.0°C | |
| JUL 20 | 16.6°C | 18.0°C | |
| JUL 21 | 16.5°C | 18.0°C | |
| JUL 22 | 16.5°C | 18.0°C | |
| JUL 23 | 16.5°C | 18.0°C | |
| JUL 24 | 18.0°C | 16.6°C | |
| JUL 25 | 18.0°C | 16.7°C | |
| JUL 26 | 18.0°C | 16.7°C | |
| JUL 27 | 18.0°C | 16.8°C | |
| JUL 28 | 18.0°C | 16.9°C | |
| JUL 29 | 18.0°C | 17.0°C | |
| JUL 30 | 18.0°C | 17.0°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 | 4°C |
| February | 0°C | 2°C | 5°C |
| March | 0°C | 3°C | 7°C |
| April | 3°C | 6°C | 10°C |
| May | 7°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 Spey: Water Temperature by Location
River Spey: Weather Forecast
July 24
July 25
July 26
July 27
Location & Local Information
Source Loch Spey
• location Roybridge, Scotland
• coordinates 57.00729°N 4.60499°W
• elevation 349 m (1,145 ft)
Mouth Moray Firth, Spey Bay
• location Fochabers, Scotland
• coordinates 57°40′34″N 3°06′00″W
• elevation 0 m (0 ft)
Length 98 mi (158 km)
The River Spey, one of Scotland’s major rivers, is an extremely cold water environment year-round, which is essential for the famous Atlantic salmon that populate its waters. Temperatures are highest during the summer, typically peaking in August with a range of approximately 12 to 15∘C (54 to 59∘F). Conversely, in the depths of winter, particularly February, the water can drop to lows of 5 to 8∘C (41 to 46∘F). These figures highlight the significant risk of cold water shock for anyone entering the river.
Wild swimming is popular in certain calmer sections of the Spey, particularly within the Cairngorms National Park, and is generally permitted under Scotland's open access laws. However, swimmers must proceed with extreme caution due to the severe cold and the river's high flow rate, which can create powerful, unexpected currents and undertows, making it especially dangerous for the inexperienced. Beyond the river itself, the Speyside region is internationally celebrated for the Malt Whisky Trail, and offers attractions such as the extensive Speyside Way walking route, historic castles, and wildlife viewing opportunities in the nearby Cairngorms.