Gatineau — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Gatineau, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Gatineau today is 23.1°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
✅ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 75°F (23°C) to 79°F (26°C). This is a very comfortable temperature for swimming, and many people can enjoy prolonged stays in the water without feeling cold. The water is pleasantly warm, making it ideal for relaxation and water sports. This temperature range is particularly popular among tourists, as it combines comfort and safety for health. 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 | 22.3°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 5 | 22.5°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 6 | 23.3°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 7 | 22.7°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 8 | 22.7°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 9 | 23.0°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 10 | 23.1°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 11 | 23.1°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 12 | 19.0°C | 22.9°C | |
| AUG 13 | 19.0°C | 22.7°C | |
| AUG 14 | 19.0°C | 22.5°C | |
| AUG 15 | 19.0°C | 22.3°C | |
| AUG 16 | 19.0°C | 22.1°C | |
| AUG 17 | 19.0°C | 21.9°C | |
| AUG 18 | 19.0°C | 21.7°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 | 10°C | 16°C |
| June | 7°C | 14°C | 21°C |
| July | 15°C | 19°C | 24°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 | 3°C | 6°C |
Gatineau: Weather Forecast
August 12
August 13
August 14
August 15
Location & Local Information
The Ottawa River, which flows past Gatineau, is a large, flowing body of water influenced by cold headwaters, but its temperature is also affected by warm summer air. In the winter, the water is near freezing, typically around 0∘C to 5∘C (32∘F to 41∘F), with extensive ice cover. In the peak summer season, surface temperatures can warm up considerably, sometimes reaching a range of 21∘C to 24∘C (70∘F to 75∘F), making the beaches suitable for swimming.
Swimming is generally permitted and popular at designated locations in Gatineau, such as Parc des Cèdres and Parc Moussette, both of which feature sandy beaches on the Ottawa River. These municipal beaches are monitored for water quality, but the City of Gatineau typically tests less frequently than its neighbor, Ottawa. Swimming is usually allowed unless water quality advisories are posted due to high E. coli levels, often occurring after heavy rainfall when sewage runoff can enter the river. Outside of these designated and marked swimming areas, swimming is at one's own risk, and caution is advised due to hidden debris and the river's currents.