New Westminster — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in New Westminster, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in New Westminster today is 17.6°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 24 | 18.5°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 25 | 18.1°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 26 | 18.2°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 27 | 18.3°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 28 | 18.3°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 29 | 17.6°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 30 | 17.9°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 31 | 17.9°C | 19.0°C | |
| SEP 1 | 16.0°C | 17.5°C | |
| SEP 2 | 16.0°C | 17.4°C | |
| SEP 3 | 16.0°C | 17.4°C | |
| SEP 4 | 16.0°C | 17.3°C | |
| SEP 5 | 16.0°C | 17.2°C | |
| SEP 6 | 16.0°C | 17.1°C | |
| SEP 7 | 16.0°C | 17.0°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 | 7°C |
| February | 0°C | 3°C | 7°C |
| March | 0°C | 4°C | 8°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 | 3°C | 6°C | 11°C |
| December | 0°C | 3°C | 7°C |
New Westminster: Weather Forecast
September 1
September 2
September 3
September 4
September 5
September 6
Location & Local Information
The Fraser River flows alongside New Westminster, and its immense size and flow rate result in persistently cold water temperatures throughout the year. Even in the peak summer months, the surface water near the city typically only reaches a maximum of around 17∘C to 20∘C (63∘F to 68∘F), which is cold enough to quickly induce cold shock and hypothermia. During the winter, the temperatures drop considerably, often cooling to the range of 4∘C to 10∘C (39∘F to 50∘F).
Swimming in the Fraser River in New Westminster is strongly discouraged and considered highly dangerous, and there are no official swimming areas. The primary reason is the extreme hazard posed by strong, fast-moving currents and turbulent undertows, which are often concealed by the river's murky, sediment-filled water. Furthermore, the river is a major commercial shipping channel, and the risk of collision with debris or large vessels is high. The City of New Westminster, in fact, built its Westminster Pier Park beach several meters above the water level for safety, explicitly retaining a physical separation to prevent public entry. Any attempt to swim is solely at one's own risk.