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River · Tennessee · United States

Cumberland River Water Temperature Today

Cumberland River, a river swimming spot in Tennessee, United States. The water warms into the mid-20s °C and holds it through the swim season, and is cold but ice-free in winter.

In August Cumberland River averages about 27°C, peaking near 27°C in July, August, September and dropping to roughly 8°C at its coldest.

Water temperature estimate
27.0°Ctropical
August climatology for this spot · Excellent
Typical in August
27.0°C
Air temperature
Wind
UV index

River and swimming-hole temperatures are modelled from long-term monthly averages and refined with live air temperature, wind and UV. Moving water reacts faster to the weather than a lake or the sea.

Cumberland River water temperature by month

MonthAverage water temperatureSwimming
January9.3°Ccold
February8.0°Ccold
March9.3°Ccold
April12.8°Ccool
May17.5°Cmild
June22.3°Cwarm
July25.7°Chot
August27.0°Ctropical
September25.7°Chot
October22.3°Cwarm
November17.5°Cmild
December12.8°Ccool

Cumberland River swim conditions FAQ

What is the water temperature in Cumberland River right now?

In August the water in Cumberland River averages about 27°C. We refine that long-term average with today's air temperature, because this river responds quickly to the weather.

When is the best time to swim in Cumberland River?

The comfortable swim season — 18°C or warmer — runs through June, July, August, September, October, with the warmest water in July, August, September at around 27°C.

Can you swim in Cumberland River in winter?

Yes, but winter temperatures drop to roughly 8°C. Below 12°C, cold-water shock is the main risk: enter slowly, never swim alone, and limit time in the water.

Is Cumberland River safe for swimming?

Moving and inland water carries different risks from the sea: check flow after rain, avoid weirs and undercut banks, look for submerged rocks before jumping, and respect local access rules and water-quality notices.

Water safety tips

  • Check the flow rate after heavy rain — inland water can rise and speed up within hours.
  • Never jump before checking depth and submerged rocks; levels change through the season.
  • Enter slowly to control cold-water shock, and get out before you start shivering.
  • Swim with someone else and agree an exit point downstream before you start.

Swim season here: June, July, August, September, October.

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