Medicine Hat — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Medicine Hat, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Medicine Hat today is 16.8°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| SEP 14 | 20.1°C | 16.1°C | |
| SEP 15 | 20.1°C | 16.1°C | |
| SEP 16 | 20.7°C | 16.1°C | |
| SEP 17 | 20.1°C | 16.1°C | |
| SEP 18 | 19.4°C | 16.1°C | |
| SEP 19 | 19.3°C | 16.1°C | |
| SEP 20 | 18.9°C | 16.1°C | |
| SEP 22 | 16.1°C | 16.8°C | |
| SEP 23 | 16.1°C | 16.7°C | |
| SEP 24 | 16.1°C | 16.7°C | |
| SEP 25 | 16.1°C | 16.7°C | |
| SEP 26 | 16.1°C | 16.6°C | |
| SEP 27 | 16.1°C | 16.6°C | |
| SEP 28 | 16.1°C | 16.6°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 | 13°C | 19°C |
| July | 15°C | 20°C | 24°C |
| August | 17°C | 19°C | 24°C |
| September | 11°C | 16°C | 22°C |
| October | 7°C | 12°C | 16°C |
| November | 3°C | 6°C | 11°C |
| December | 0°C | 3°C | 6°C |
Medicine Hat: Weather Forecast
September 22
September 23
September 24
September 25
September 26
Location & Local Information
Medicine Hat, located in southeastern Alberta, lies along the banks of the South Saskatchewan River, which carries water originating from the Bow and Oldman Rivers. The river’s temperature in this region reflects the dry prairie climate and the influence of mountain runoff. In early spring, the water remains cold, averaging around 39–45°F (4–7°C) as snowmelt increases flow. By late May and June, surface temperatures rise to about 52–59°F (11–15°C). During midsummer, from July through August, the river warms to its most comfortable range, typically between 63–70°F (17–21°C) in slower, shallower sections near Medicine Hat. As autumn approaches, cooler nights and reduced sunlight gradually bring the temperature back below 57°F (14°C) by late September.
Swimming in the South Saskatchewan River at Medicine Hat is allowed, but it requires caution due to fluctuating currents and cold water below the surface. During the warmest months, locals often enjoy wading or short swims near sandy or shallow areas such as Strathcona Island Park, where the flow is calmer. However, deeper parts of the river remain chilly and fast-moving, making extended swimming or venturing far from shore unsafe. The best time for brief recreational swimming is midsummer, when both the air and surface water temperatures are at their warmest.