Fort McMurray — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Fort McMurray, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Fort McMurray today is 18.6°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 65°F (18°C) to 68°F (20°C). This is already quite warm water, which is ideal for most people. Swimming becomes comfortable, and prolonged stays in the water do not cause discomfort. This temperature is perfect for family trips and for those who prefer warmer water. It is also comfortable for water sports such as surfing or swimming. 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 4 | 20.2°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 5 | 20.1°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 6 | 19.3°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 7 | 19.0°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 8 | 18.8°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 9 | 18.7°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 10 | 18.6°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 11 | 18.6°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 12 | 19.0°C | 18.6°C | |
| AUG 13 | 19.0°C | 18.6°C | |
| AUG 14 | 19.0°C | 18.7°C | |
| AUG 15 | 19.0°C | 18.7°C | |
| AUG 16 | 19.0°C | 18.7°C | |
| AUG 17 | 19.0°C | 18.7°C | |
| AUG 18 | 19.0°C | 18.7°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 | 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 | 2°C | 7°C | 11°C |
| December | 0°C | 3°C | 6°C |
Fort McMurray: Weather Forecast
August 12
August 13
August 14
August 15
August 16
August 17
Location & Local Information
The Athabasca River near Fort McMurray is a large, powerful river originating from the Columbia Icefield, which keeps its water significantly cold throughout the year. Due to its northern location, the river is near freezing in the winter months, typically ranging from 0∘C to 5∘C (32∘F to 41∘F), and ice cover is common. Even in the peak summer months, the surface water is usually cool, rarely rising much above the range of 18∘C to 22∘C (64∘F to 72∘F), which is cold enough to pose a risk of cold shock and hypothermia for sustained swimming.
Swimming in the Athabasca River is highly discouraged and considered very dangerous, and there are no official, designated swimming beaches maintained by the municipality. The primary hazards are the river's significant currents and strong undertows, which are often turbulent and powerful, especially during periods of high flow from spring snowmelt or heavy rain. Additionally, the river is known for carrying heavy silt, which reduces visibility and hides potential debris. Any swimming is strictly at one's own risk, and local recommendations typically point to nearby lakes like Gregoire Lake for safer, regulated swimming opportunities.