River Stour — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in the River Stour, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in the River Stour today is 18.1°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 65°F (18°C) to 68°F (20°C). This is already quite warm water, which is ideal for most people. Swimming becomes comfortable, and prolonged stays in the water do not cause discomfort. This temperature is perfect for family trips and for those who prefer warmer water. It is also comfortable for water sports such as surfing or swimming. 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| AUG 26 | 18.9°C | 18.6°C | |
| AUG 27 | 18.9°C | 18.6°C | |
| AUG 28 | 18.9°C | 18.6°C | |
| AUG 29 | 18.9°C | 18.6°C | |
| AUG 30 | 18.4°C | 18.6°C | |
| AUG 31 | 18.4°C | 18.6°C | |
| SEP 1 | 17.8°C | 15.0°C | |
| SEP 2 | 18.0°C | 15.0°C | |
| SEP 3 | 15.0°C | 17.9°C | |
| SEP 4 | 15.0°C | 17.8°C | |
| SEP 5 | 15.0°C | 17.6°C | |
| SEP 6 | 15.0°C | 17.5°C | |
| SEP 7 | 15.0°C | 17.3°C | |
| SEP 8 | 15.0°C | 17.2°C | |
| SEP 9 | 15.0°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 | 3°C | 6°C |
| February | 0°C | 4°C | 7°C |
| March | 2°C | 6°C | 9°C |
| April | 6°C | 9°C | 12°C |
| May | 10°C | 15°C | 19°C |
| June | 13°C | 18°C | 22°C |
| July | 14°C | 19°C | 24°C |
| August | 14°C | 19°C | 24°C |
| September | 10°C | 15°C | 19°C |
| October | 8°C | 11°C | 14°C |
| November | 3°C | 7°C | 12°C |
| December | 0°C | 4°C | 8°C |
River Stour: Water Temperature by Location
River Stour: Weather Forecast
September 3
September 4
September 5
September 6
September 7
Location & Local Information
Source Stourhead
• location St Peter's Pump, Mere, Wiltshire
Mouth:
• location Christchurch Harbour, Christchurch, Dorset
• coordinates 50.72796°N 1.77295°W
Length 61 mi (98 km)
The River Stour, meandering through East Anglia and forming the border between Suffolk and Essex, is a gentle, largely unpolluted waterway famed for its idyllic, pastoral scenery. As an inland river, its temperature fluctuates closely with air temperature. In winter, the water is typically cold, ranging between 4∘C and 8∘C (39∘F to 46∘F). By mid-summer, the shallower sections can warm up considerably, reaching a more appealing 16∘C to 19∘C (61∘F to 66∘F), making it relatively comfortable for swimming.
Wild swimming is not strictly prohibited in many non-tidal sections, and the River Stour at Sudbury in Suffolk has recently been formally designated as a bathing water site, meaning its quality is regularly monitored by the Environment Agency during the summer season. Outside of this designated spot, swimmers must exercise caution regarding water quality, submerged hazards, and the risk of Weil’s disease, which is common to all slow-moving UK rivers. The Stour is best known as the heart of Constable Country, and nearby attractions include Flatford Mill and Willy Lott's Cottage, which were immortalised in the paintings of John Constable, and the charming village of Dedham, a popular spot for hiring rowing boats.