Grande Prairie — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Grande Prairie, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Grande Prairie today is 19.8°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 | 20.8°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 5 | 20.8°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 6 | 20.8°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 7 | 19.7°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 8 | 19.7°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 9 | 19.7°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 10 | 19.8°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 11 | 19.8°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 12 | 19.0°C | 19.8°C | |
| AUG 13 | 19.0°C | 19.7°C | |
| AUG 14 | 19.0°C | 19.7°C | |
| AUG 15 | 19.0°C | 19.6°C | |
| AUG 16 | 19.0°C | 19.6°C | |
| AUG 17 | 19.0°C | 19.6°C | |
| AUG 18 | 19.0°C | 19.5°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 |
Grande Prairie: Weather Forecast
August 12
August 13
August 14
August 15
August 16
August 17
Location & Local Information
Grande Prairie, located in northwestern Alberta near the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, is surrounded by several small lakes and rivers, including Bear Lake, Saskatoon Island Lake, and the Wapiti River. Because of the region’s northern latitude and cooler climate, water temperatures stay relatively low for much of the year. In early spring, as ice melts, surface temperatures in local lakes average around 37–43°F (3–6°C). By late May and June, they warm to about 50–59°F (10–15°C). During midsummer, from July through August, shallow lakes and calm river sections can reach 63–70°F (17–21°C) on warm days, while deeper or faster-moving waters remain cooler at around 57–61°F (14–16°C). By late September, cooling weather quickly lowers the water back below 55°F (13°C).
Swimming in the Grande Prairie area is allowed and possible during the summer, though the season is relatively short due to the cool water and variable weather. Bear Lake and nearby reservoirs offer suitable areas for wading, short swims, and recreational paddling when temperatures peak in July and August. The Wapiti River, while scenic, has a stronger current and colder water, making it less suitable for swimming. The best time for comfortable swimming is midsummer, when both air and water temperatures align for brief but refreshing outdoor recreation.