Skellefte River — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in the Skellefte River, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in the Skellefte River today is 6°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
❌ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 41°F (5°C) to 47°F (8°C). This water temperature is still quite low, and swimming in such conditions may only be comfortable for hardened individuals. It is recommended to limit the time spent in the water to avoid hypothermia. For those not accustomed to cold water, it is better to refrain from swimming. However, if you decide to enter the water, it is advisable to wear a warm wetsuit for protection against the cold. 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| OCT 4 | 6.5°C | 7.0°C | |
| OCT 5 | 7.0°C | 7.0°C | |
| OCT 6 | 6.7°C | 7.0°C | |
| OCT 7 | 6.7°C | 7.0°C | |
| OCT 8 | 6.7°C | 7.0°C | |
| OCT 9 | 6.5°C | 7.0°C | |
| OCT 10 | 6.3°C | 7.0°C | |
| OCT 11 | 6.0°C | 7.0°C | |
| OCT 12 | 7.0°C | 6.1°C | |
| OCT 13 | 7.0°C | 6.1°C | |
| OCT 14 | 7.0°C | 6.2°C | |
| OCT 15 | 7.0°C | 6.2°C | |
| OCT 16 | 7.0°C | 6.3°C | |
| OCT 17 | 7.0°C | 6.3°C | |
| OCT 18 | 7.0°C | 6.4°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 | 0°C | 0°C | 3°C |
| February | 0°C | 0°C | 3°C |
| March | 0°C | 2°C | 5°C |
| April | 0°C | 2°C | 5°C |
| May | 1°C | 6°C | 10°C |
| June | 8°C | 12°C | 17°C |
| July | 11°C | 16°C | 20°C |
| August | 10°C | 15°C | 19°C |
| September | 7°C | 11°C | 16°C |
| October | 3°C | 7°C | 9°C |
| November | 0°C | 4°C | 7°C |
| December | 0°C | 1°C | 4°C |
Skellefte River: Water Temperature by Location
Skellefte River: Weather Forecast
October 11
October 12
October 13
October 14
October 15
Location & Local Information
Source Ikesjaure
• location Arjeplog Municipality, Norrbotten County
• coordinates 66°48′56″N 16°7′6″E
Mouth Gulf of Bothnia
• location Skellefteå, Västerbotten County
• coordinates 64°42′23″N 21°9′13″E
• elevation 0 m (0 ft)
Length 410 km (250 mi)
Skellefte River (Skellefteälven) in Norrbotten County is a northern river with distinctly seasonal water temperatures. During spring thaw (April–May) the water is very cold, typically around 0–6 °C (32–43 °F) because of snowmelt. In summer (June–August) surface temperatures in sheltered bays and slow stretches can rise to roughly 10–20 °C (50–68 °F), occasionally reaching about 22 °C (72 °F) in unusually warm years or shallow areas. Come autumn (September–October) temperatures generally fall to about 5–12 °C (41–54 °F). In winter the river is often ice-covered and near freezing, around 0–2 °C (32–36 °F) where open water remains.
Swimming in Skellefteälven is generally permitted under Sweden’s public access traditions, and many people swim in the river during the warmer months. However, conditions vary: strong currents, sudden depth changes, submerged debris, and regulated flows near hydropower stations make some sections unsafe. Water quality is usually good, but local advisories should be checked. Ice and near-freezing water in winter pose a high risk of cold shock and hypothermia; winter swimming only where prepared and supported is advisable. In short, summer swimming is common but requires caution and site-specific judgment.