River Tawe — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in the River Tawe, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in the River Tawe today is 15.5°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| SEP 16 | 16.5°C | 18.0°C | |
| SEP 17 | 16.7°C | 18.0°C | |
| SEP 18 | 16.2°C | 18.0°C | |
| SEP 19 | 16.1°C | 18.0°C | |
| SEP 20 | 15.5°C | 18.0°C | |
| SEP 21 | 15.9°C | 18.0°C | |
| SEP 22 | 15.8°C | 18.0°C | |
| SEP 23 | 15.5°C | 18.0°C | |
| SEP 24 | 18.0°C | 15.6°C | |
| SEP 25 | 18.0°C | 15.8°C | |
| SEP 26 | 18.0°C | 15.9°C | |
| SEP 27 | 18.0°C | 16.0°C | |
| SEP 28 | 18.0°C | 16.1°C | |
| SEP 29 | 18.0°C | 16.3°C | |
| SEP 30 | 18.0°C | 16.4°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 | 2°C | 6°C | 9°C |
| February | 3°C | 7°C | 9°C |
| March | 5°C | 9°C | 11°C |
| April | 8°C | 11°C | 14°C |
| May | 9°C | 14°C | 18°C |
| June | 12°C | 18°C | 24°C |
| July | 15°C | 20°C | 25°C |
| August | 15°C | 19°C | 24°C |
| September | 13°C | 18°C | 22°C |
| October | 9°C | 13°C | 16°C |
| November | 5°C | 9°C | 11°C |
| December | 3°C | 7°C | 9°C |
River Tawe: Water Temperature by Location
River Tawe: Weather Forecast
September 23
September 24
September 25
September 26
September 27
Location & Local Information
The River Tawe flows from the upper slopes of the Brecon Beacons to Swansea Bay, passing through valleys, forests, and post-industrial landscapes along its course. Its water remains cool for most of the year due to frequent rainfall and its upland origins. In winter, the river typically averages around 4–6 °C (39–43 °F), while spring brings a slow rise to 8–10 °C (46–50 °F). During summer, temperatures may reach 15–17 °C (59–63 °F) in shallower or sunlit stretches, though deeper areas remain noticeably colder. By autumn, the water cools again to about 10 °C (50 °F), following the usual pattern of the Welsh climate. The Tawe’s flow is steady year-round, which helps keep its temperature relatively stable compared with smaller streams.
Swimming is allowed in parts of the River Tawe, particularly in the cleaner, upper sections near Ystradgynlais and within the Brecon Beacons National Park. These areas are popular among wild swimmers seeking clear, fresh water surrounded by mountain scenery. However, swimmers should take care with currents and avoid sections near industrial zones or after heavy rainfall. Wetsuits are often worn outside midsummer. The lower Tawe near Swansea offers scenic walks along the riverfront, with nearby attractions including Clyne Gardens, the Swansea Marina, and the sandy beaches of Mumbles.