Prince George — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Prince George, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Prince George today is 15.8°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| AUG 24 | 17.1°C | 19.9°C | |
| AUG 25 | 16.0°C | 19.9°C | |
| AUG 26 | 16.0°C | 19.9°C | |
| AUG 27 | 16.0°C | 19.9°C | |
| AUG 28 | 16.0°C | 19.9°C | |
| AUG 29 | 16.0°C | 19.9°C | |
| AUG 30 | 15.8°C | 19.9°C | |
| AUG 31 | 15.8°C | 19.9°C | |
| SEP 1 | 16.0°C | 15.8°C | |
| SEP 2 | 16.0°C | 15.8°C | |
| SEP 3 | 16.0°C | 15.8°C | |
| SEP 4 | 16.0°C | 15.8°C | |
| SEP 5 | 16.0°C | 15.9°C | |
| SEP 6 | 16.0°C | 15.9°C | |
| SEP 7 | 16.0°C | 15.9°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 | 13°C | 19°C | 23°C |
| August | 15°C | 20°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 |
Prince George: Weather Forecast
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Location & Local Information
The Fraser River near Prince George, British Columbia, is a large, powerful river characterized by extremely cold water temperatures that pose a serious hazard. Due to its northern location and glacial source, the water remains near-freezing in the winter, typically ranging from 0∘C to 5∘C (32∘F to 41∘F). Even in the peak summer months, temperatures only rise to a modest range, often peaking around 17∘C to 20∘C (63∘F to 68∘F). These upper summer temperatures are on the threshold where they cause stress for migrating Pacific salmon, and are still considered very cold for human swimming.
Swimming in the Fraser River in the Prince George area is strongly discouraged and highly dangerous. The primary hazard is not just the cold water, which can quickly lead to cold shock and hypothermia, but also the river's massive volume and flow rate. The river carries a significant amount of sediment, which makes the water murky and hides powerful, unpredictable currents and undertows. Furthermore, there are no official, lifeguarded beaches, and local authorities often advise against swimming. Any attempt to swim in this river is done strictly at one's own risk due to the combination of swift currents,