Bering Sea Water Temperature Today & Regional Overview
We find every place where you can swim and show you the water temperature there today and throughout the year.
Current Water Temperature
The water temperature in the Bering Sea today ranges from 8.5°C (Akutan, United States) to 8.5°C (Akutan, United States).
As of today, the minimum water temperature in the Bering Sea ranges from 47°F (8°C) to 50°F (10°C). This is still cool water, suitable only for experienced swimmers or those accustomed to cold water. Swimming in such conditions is possible, but not recommended for prolonged periods. Extra caution should be taken during extended exposure, as the cold water can cause heat loss and lead to hypothermia. For added comfort, special clothing can be used.
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.
Sea Temperature Trends
Over the past month, the water temperature in the Bering Sea has remained almost unchanged. In general, the sea water temperature remains within the statistical range for this time of year.
Water Temperature and Swimming Conditions Throughout the Year
| Month | Min | Max |
|---|---|---|
| January | -4°C | 6°C |
| February | -4°C | 5°C |
| March | -3°C | 5°C |
| April | -4°C | 7°C |
| May | -3°C | 15°C |
| June | -3°C | 24°C |
| July | 3°C | 25°C |
| August | 5°C | 21°C |
| September | 3°C | 16°C |
| October | 0°C | 12°C |
| November | -2°C | 9°C |
| December | -3°C | 7°C |
The Bering Sea is a cold, subarctic body of water where surface temperatures vary strongly by season and location. In winter, surface waters commonly approach the freezing point of seawater, around −1.8°C to about 2°C in ice-free southern pockets; sea ice is frequent in northern and coastal areas. Spring temperatures rise gradually, typically ranging from about 0°C to 5°C as ice retreats. During summer months the warmest surface readings occur in more southerly and shallow bays, often between 6°C and 12°C, while much of the central and northern Bering Sea remains cooler, frequently 2°C to 6°C. In autumn the water cools back toward roughly 2°C to 6°C as storms and returning ice begin to lower temperatures again. These numbers are general: local conditions, currents, depth and weather can change temperatures significantly over short distances and times.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in the Bering Sea is possible in a technical sense but is uncommon and generally not recommended without proper precautions. Very cold surface temperatures, risk of cold shock, rapid onset of hypothermia and variable weather make unprotected swimming hazardous even in summer, when water rarely exceeds low double-digit °C values. In some sheltered bays and during brief warm periods local people may swim with appropriate wetsuits or drysuits, and organized cold-water events occur with strong safety measures. Winter swimming is effectively precluded by sea ice in many areas. Anyone considering entering Bering Sea waters should use thermal protective gear, be aware of local conditions and tides, and follow guidance from local authorities and experienced guides.