Zala River — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in the Zala River, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in the Zala River today is 12.1°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 54°F (12°C) to 60°F (15°C). The water is significantly warmer, and swimming becomes possible for most people. However, caution may still be required for prolonged stays in the water, as extended exposure can cause discomfort. This is a suitable temperature range for short swims and for those accustomed to cooler water. For more comfortable swimming, it is recommended to use proper gear. 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 15 | 13.8°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 16 | 13.4°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 17 | 13.0°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 18 | 12.5°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 19 | 12.6°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 20 | 12.5°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 21 | 12.3°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 22 | 12.1°C | 13.0°C | |
| OCT 23 | 13.0°C | 12.1°C | |
| OCT 24 | 13.0°C | 12.2°C | |
| OCT 25 | 13.0°C | 12.2°C | |
| OCT 26 | 13.0°C | 12.3°C | |
| OCT 27 | 13.0°C | 12.3°C | |
| OCT 28 | 13.0°C | 12.4°C | |
| OCT 29 | 13.0°C | 12.4°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 | 1°C | 6°C | 9°C |
| February | 2°C | 6°C | 9°C |
| March | 5°C | 9°C | 11°C |
| April | 7°C | 11°C | 15°C |
| May | 9°C | 14°C | 20°C |
| June | 15°C | 20°C | 26°C |
| July | 16°C | 21°C | 26°C |
| August | 16°C | 22°C | 28°C |
| September | 13°C | 18°C | 23°C |
| October | 9°C | 13°C | 16°C |
| November | 4°C | 8°C | 12°C |
| December | 2°C | 6°C | 9°C |
Zala River: Water Temperature by Location
Zala River: Weather Forecast
October 23
October 24
October 25
October 26
October 27
Location & Local Information
Source:
• location near Szalafő
Mouth:
• location Lake Balaton
• coordinates 46.7059°N 17.2646°E
Length 139 km (86 mi)
The Zala River winds its way through western Hungary, feeding into Lake Balaton, and its water conditions are closely tied to the seasons. In the summer months, the river warms up to a pleasant but still slightly cooler temperature than the lake, usually making it refreshing rather than truly warm. In spring the water can remain cold well into May, while in autumn it quickly loses warmth, becoming chilly again. Winter brings very low temperatures, often unsuitable even for short contact.
Swimming in the Zala is possible in some stretches, but it is not a common activity. The river is relatively narrow and often surrounded by reed beds, meadows, or agricultural areas, which makes access less straightforward. Locals and visitors usually prefer nearby lakes or dedicated swimming places, though on hot summer days some people do take a dip in calmer parts of the river. It offers more of a natural and rustic experience compared to managed swimming spots.