Québec — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Québec, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Québec today is 14.7°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| SEP 21 | 16.3°C | 15.5°C | |
| SEP 22 | 16.2°C | 15.5°C | |
| SEP 23 | 16.5°C | 15.5°C | |
| SEP 24 | 15.8°C | 15.5°C | |
| SEP 25 | 15.1°C | 15.5°C | |
| SEP 26 | 15.9°C | 15.5°C | |
| SEP 27 | 13.9°C | 15.5°C | |
| SEP 28 | 14.6°C | 15.5°C | |
| SEP 29 | 15.5°C | 14.6°C | |
| SEP 30 | 15.5°C | 14.5°C | |
| OCT 1 | 13.0°C | 14.4°C | |
| OCT 2 | 13.0°C | 14.4°C | |
| OCT 3 | 13.0°C | 14.3°C | |
| OCT 4 | 13.0°C | 14.2°C | |
| OCT 5 | 13.0°C | 14.1°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 | 2°C | 6°C | 9°C |
| February | 3°C | 5°C | 9°C |
| March | 1°C | 6°C | 11°C |
| April | 2°C | 10°C | 16°C |
| May | 6°C | 14°C | 21°C |
| June | 12°C | 17°C | 22°C |
| July | 16°C | 20°C | 25°C |
| August | 17°C | 20°C | 24°C |
| September | 11°C | 16°C | 20°C |
| October | 8°C | 13°C | 18°C |
| November | 3°C | 8°C | 16°C |
| December | 3°C | 5°C | 8°C |
Québec: Weather Forecast
September 29
September 30
October 1
October 2
October 3
October 4
Location & Local Information
The city of Québec, located along the St. Lawrence River, experiences a similar pattern of water temperatures as other cities in the region. During the summer months, the river's water temperature typically ranges from 60°F to 70°F (15°C to 21°C), which is cool but still tolerable for many swimmers, especially those accustomed to the chilly waters of northern rivers. The current in the St. Lawrence River near Québec can be quite strong, which may limit some of the more casual swimming opportunities. However, it does provide an ideal setting for activities like kayaking, canoeing, and boating.
While the St. Lawrence River is used for various recreational pursuits, direct swimming in the river itself is less common in Québec City compared to some other cities along the river. The water can sometimes be murky, and the flow can make it less ideal for relaxed swimming. There are, however, designated areas for swimming and outdoor activities in the region, such as local beaches or pools that are maintained for public use. The nearby Parc de la Chute-Montmorency and its surrounding areas offer more controlled environments for visitors looking to cool off in the summer.
In the colder months, the temperature of the river drops significantly, with the water often falling below 32°F (0°C) in the winter. This leads to freezing conditions in certain parts of the river, making swimming unfeasible during the winter season. However, during the warmer months, the St. Lawrence River remains a picturesque feature of the Québec City landscape, with the opportunity for various water activities making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.