Ottawa — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Ottawa, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Ottawa today is 19.1°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 24 | 21.4°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 25 | 21.3°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 26 | 21.3°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 27 | 21.3°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 28 | 20.4°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 29 | 20.1°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 30 | 19.8°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 31 | 19.1°C | 19.0°C | |
| SEP 1 | 16.0°C | 18.9°C | |
| SEP 2 | 16.0°C | 18.8°C | |
| SEP 3 | 16.0°C | 18.6°C | |
| SEP 4 | 16.0°C | 18.5°C | |
| SEP 5 | 16.0°C | 18.3°C | |
| SEP 6 | 16.0°C | 18.2°C | |
| SEP 7 | 16.0°C | 18.0°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 | 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 |
Ottawa: Weather Forecast
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Location & Local Information
The Ottawa River, which separates Ottawa, Ontario, from Gatineau, Quebec, is a large, powerful waterway whose temperature fluctuates significantly with the seasons. In the winter, the water is near freezing, typically ranging from 0∘C to 5∘C (32∘F to 41∘F), with extensive ice cover. In the peak summer season, surface temperatures can warm up to a comfortable range for swimming, generally reaching 21∘C to 24∘C (70∘F to 75∘F), making the designated beaches a popular spot to cool off.
Swimming is widely permitted and popular at the City of Ottawa's four municipal beaches on the river: Petrie Island, Britannia, Westboro, and the NCC River House. These beaches are officially recognized and are supervised by lifeguards during the summer season, confirming that swimming is a safe, encouraged activity in these designated areas. However, water quality is frequently monitored for E. coli bacteria, and the City of Ottawa posts No Swimming advisories when levels exceed safe thresholds. Swimmers are also advised never to swim in the river during or immediately after heavy rainfall, as this can increase bacterial counts due to combined sewer overflows.