Baltic Sea water temperatures on October 17th: Where to go for swimming?

Baltic Sea water temperatures on October 17th: Where to go for swimming?

In Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, swimming in the Baltic Sea is simply part of summer for many vacationers and locals. But even in winter the brave ones venture into the cool water. The water temperature is a decisive factor in whether you reach for the towel or prefer to stay on the beach. An interactive map makes it possible to determine the water surface temperatures of 22 different locations along the Baltic Sea in the country. According to the Baltic Sea newspaper The data is updated daily and comes from the Federal Maritime and Hydrographic Agency (BSH) and the German Weather Service (DWD).

The measurements are carried out at 22 water gauge stations, including well-known places such as Kühlungsborn, Warnemünde and Binz. What is interesting is that the water temperature forecasts are provided for the times of day: 8 a.m., 11 a.m., 2 p.m., 5 p.m. and 8 p.m. This gives both locals and tourists the opportunity to prepare specifically for their bathing fun.

Record temperatures in the North and Baltic Seas

The water temperatures of the North and Baltic Seas show a worrying trend. In spring 2023, the North Sea experienced the warmest spring since evaluations began in 1997. According to Daily Mirror The average temperature of the North Sea during this time was 8.7 degrees, which is 0.9 degrees above the long-term average. The Baltic Sea was also above average with an average temperature of 5 degrees, reaching the sixth warmest spring since 1997.

In September 2025, temperatures in the Baltic Sea were 16.8 degrees, which is 1.8 degrees above average. The North Sea was 16 degrees at this point. These developments are not only exciting, but also alarming, as they highlight the direct impact of climate change on our oceans NDR reported.

A look into the future

The increasing warming not only impacts the water temperatures themselves, but also the habitats of marine life. Loud NDR Warmer temperatures can hold less oxygen in the water, which in turn has negative consequences for biodiversity. Animals and plants in the Baltic Sea are particularly affected, as their existence is threatened by less ice and higher temperatures. Mini algae blooms are increasing and restricting light conditions in deeper water layers.

Bladderwrack, an important species in the Baltic Sea, has already declined by 90%. Fish like herring are also responding to the changing conditions by spawning earlier, but fewer offspring survive. Since the global climate crisis also affects northern Germany, quick action is required. Experts recommend reducing greenhouse gases to mitigate the negative consequences and protect the health of the oceans.

The developments in water temperatures in the North and Baltic Seas are an alarm signal that concerns us all. Whether you plan to hit the waves or just take a walk on the beach, the effort and commitment to preserving this unique nature should be a priority for each of us.