Calgary — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Calgary, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Calgary today is 17.8°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 25 | 16.9°C | 20.4°C | |
| AUG 26 | 16.9°C | 20.4°C | |
| AUG 27 | 17.9°C | 20.4°C | |
| AUG 28 | 17.9°C | 20.4°C | |
| AUG 29 | 17.9°C | 20.4°C | |
| AUG 30 | 17.9°C | 20.4°C | |
| AUG 31 | 17.8°C | 20.4°C | |
| SEP 2 | 16.0°C | 17.7°C | |
| SEP 3 | 16.0°C | 17.6°C | |
| SEP 4 | 16.0°C | 17.5°C | |
| SEP 5 | 16.0°C | 17.4°C | |
| SEP 6 | 16.0°C | 17.4°C | |
| SEP 7 | 16.0°C | 17.3°C | |
| SEP 8 | 16.0°C | 17.2°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 | 4°C |
| February | 0°C | 3°C | 4°C |
| March | 0°C | 3°C | 5°C |
| April | 0°C | 5°C | 11°C |
| May | 4°C | 8°C | 15°C |
| June | 7°C | 14°C | 18°C |
| July | 13°C | 18°C | 23°C |
| August | 16°C | 20°C | 24°C |
| September | 11°C | 16°C | 20°C |
| October | 7°C | 12°C | 16°C |
| November | 1°C | 6°C | 11°C |
| December | 0°C | 3°C | 6°C |
Calgary: Weather Forecast
September 1
September 2
September 3
September 4
September 5
September 6
Location & Local Information
The Bow River in Calgary is a major, fast-flowing river that originates from glacial melt in the Rocky Mountains, which keeps its water consistently cold. Even during the peak summer months, the river temperature near Calgary rarely exceeds 17∘C (63∘F), with studies showing maximum summer temperatures around 18∘C (64.4∘F). This temperature is cold enough to induce cold shock and hypothermia quickly. In the winter, the water is near freezing, typically ranging from 0∘C to 5∘C (32∘F to 41∘F), with parts of the river freezing over.
Swimming in the Bow River is strongly discouraged by the City of Calgary and is generally considered unsafe. The primary hazards are the severe risk of cold shock and the river's fast-moving currents and undertows, which can be unpredictable and are often hidden by increased water turbidity after heavy rainfall. While many residents enjoy floating and wading, the city explicitly states the river is generally not suitable for swimming. Any swimming activity is entirely at one's own risk, and life jackets (PFDs) are legally required for anyone using watercraft, underscoring the serious safety concerns.