Burnaby — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Burnaby, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Burnaby today is 17.6°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 60°F (15°C) to 65°F (18°C). The water is comfortable for most people, making it an ideal range for water sports enthusiasts. The temperature does not cause significant discomfort, and swimming will be pleasant for the majority. However, it's important to remember that prolonged exposure to the water can still lead to cooling, so it's essential to monitor the time spent in the water, especially for children or elderly people. 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| AUG 24 | 18.4°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 25 | 18.1°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 26 | 18.1°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 27 | 18.2°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 28 | 18.2°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 29 | 17.5°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 30 | 17.8°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 31 | 17.8°C | 19.0°C | |
| SEP 1 | 16.0°C | 17.5°C | |
| SEP 2 | 16.0°C | 17.4°C | |
| SEP 3 | 16.0°C | 17.4°C | |
| SEP 4 | 16.0°C | 17.3°C | |
| SEP 5 | 16.0°C | 17.2°C | |
| SEP 6 | 16.0°C | 17.1°C | |
| SEP 7 | 16.0°C | 17.0°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 | 0°C | 3°C | 7°C |
| February | 0°C | 3°C | 7°C |
| March | 0°C | 4°C | 7°C |
| April | 0°C | 5°C | 11°C |
| May | 4°C | 8°C | 15°C |
| June | 7°C | 14°C | 18°C |
| July | 15°C | 18°C | 23°C |
| August | 17°C | 19°C | 24°C |
| September | 11°C | 16°C | 20°C |
| October | 7°C | 12°C | 16°C |
| November | 3°C | 6°C | 11°C |
| December | 0°C | 4°C | 7°C |
Burnaby: Weather Forecast
September 1
September 2
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September 4
September 5
September 6
Location & Local Information
The Fraser River borders the municipality of Burnaby, and the water is typically very cold due to its large volume, swift current, and origins in the Rocky Mountains. Even in the warmest summer months, surface water temperatures in the lower Fraser River near Burnaby usually peak around 17∘C to 20∘C (63∘F to 68∘F). This is a critical temperature range that poses a risk of cold shock and hypothermia, making extended swimming dangerous. In winter, the water cools to single digits, typically ranging from 4∘C to 10∘C (39∘F to 50∘F).
Swimming in the Fraser River near Burnaby is strongly discouraged and unsafe, and there are no official, designated swimming areas. The river is a major, high-volume shipping channel and its immense flow creates powerful, unpredictable undertows and turbulent currents. Furthermore, the water often has high turbidity (murkiness), which makes hazards and steep drop-offs impossible to see. Any attempt to swim is solely at one's own risk, and local health authorities also monitor water quality, as E. coli levels can occasionally exceed safe limits, further advising against water contact.