Port Alberni — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Port Alberni, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Port Alberni today is 13.7°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 54°F (12°C) to 60°F (15°C). The water is significantly warmer, and swimming becomes possible for most people. However, caution may still be required for prolonged stays in the water, as extended exposure can cause discomfort. This is a suitable temperature range for short swims and for those accustomed to cooler water. For more comfortable swimming, it is recommended to use proper gear. 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| OCT 5 | 14.9°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 6 | 15.2°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 7 | 15.0°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 8 | 14.2°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 9 | 14.5°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 10 | 14.5°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 11 | 14.3°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 12 | 13.9°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 13 | 12.0°C | 13.6°C | |
| OCT 14 | 12.0°C | 13.5°C | |
| OCT 15 | 12.0°C | 13.4°C | |
| OCT 16 | 12.0°C | 13.4°C | |
| OCT 17 | 12.0°C | 13.3°C | |
| OCT 18 | 12.0°C | 13.2°C | |
| OCT 19 | 12.0°C | 13.1°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 | 4°C | 7°C |
| February | 0°C | 4°C | 8°C |
| March | 0°C | 4°C | 8°C |
| April | 0°C | 6°C | 12°C |
| May | 4°C | 11°C | 17°C |
| June | 7°C | 14°C | 18°C |
| July | 14°C | 19°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 | 4°C | 8°C |
Port Alberni: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
Location & Local Information
Alberni Inlet is a deep, protected fjord that runs inland from the Pacific Ocean to the city of Port Alberni, and its water temperatures are characteristically cold, reflecting a coastal British Columbia marine environment. The surface water is at its warmest during the peak summer months, averaging a maximum of around 12∘C to 13.5∘C (53.6∘F to 56.3∘F), with July and August being the warmest. However, the water column remains cold, and in the winter, the surface cools significantly, averaging around 7∘C to 8.5∘C (44.6∘F to 47.3∘F).
Swimming is generally permitted in the Alberni Inlet, but the cold temperatures pose a constant risk, and swimming is typically only recommended for short, careful dips. Port Alberni locals often prefer the warmer, freshwater swimming in nearby Sproat Lake or Cameron Lake. While there are access points like Canal Beach that allow for a salt water dip, the water quality is sometimes a concern; health authorities have historically issued advisories for high bacterial counts in areas of the Inlet and the connecting Somass River. Therefore, any swimming is strictly at one's own risk, and caution is advised regarding cold shock, water quality advisories, and boat traffic.