Question: What's the Weather Like on Orkney?
I've heard the Gulf Stream warms Orkney but it's pretty far north. What is the weather really like? Does the water ever get warm enough to swim? And where can I find the most current reports?
Answer: The Gulf Stream moderates Orkney's climate but if you're planning a trip to Orkney it's wise to keep in mind that wild weather is part of the archipelago's charm.
It never gets brutally cold -- average winter temperature is about 41 degrees Fahrenheit (5-6C). But it also never gets particularly warm. The average summer temperature is 59 to 61 degrees Fahrenheit (15C). Sea fog and mist is common in the summer with some parts of the island experiencing more than others.
Water temperature ranges from about 17F in winter to 55F in summer. Ordinary swimming is not on the cards, but surfers and divers wearing wet suits find the summer water temperature manageable.
It's about that wind!
The main seasonal difference on Orkney is the wind and rain. Orkney is one of the windiest places in the United Kingdom with gale force winds recorded in low-lying areas at least 30 days per year.Winter is the windiest and the wettest time of year although there is very little snow.
Weather forecasts and webcams
- The UK Met Office has regularly updated weather statistics, 1 to 15 day forecasts and long range, seasonal forecasts.
- Visit Orkney Webcams Monitors at least six different webcams around the islands so you can see the latest weather for yourself.
