Saskatoon — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Saskatoon, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Saskatoon today is 15.5°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| SEP 6 | 18.0°C | 16.0°C | |
| SEP 7 | 17.8°C | 16.0°C | |
| SEP 8 | 17.8°C | 16.0°C | |
| SEP 9 | 16.9°C | 16.0°C | |
| SEP 10 | 17.0°C | 16.0°C | |
| SEP 12 | 17.0°C | 16.0°C | |
| SEP 13 | 14.8°C | 16.0°C | |
| SEP 14 | 16.0°C | 15.5°C | |
| SEP 15 | 16.0°C | 15.6°C | |
| SEP 16 | 16.0°C | 15.6°C | |
| SEP 17 | 16.0°C | 15.6°C | |
| SEP 18 | 16.0°C | 15.6°C | |
| SEP 19 | 16.0°C | 15.7°C | |
| SEP 20 | 16.0°C | 15.7°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 | 13°C | 19°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 | 2°C | 7°C | 11°C |
| December | 0°C | 3°C | 6°C |
Saskatoon: Weather Forecast
September 14
September 15
September 16
September 17
September 18
September 19
Location & Local Information
The South Saskatchewan River flowing through Saskatoon is a large, cold river that experiences significant temperature variation. In the summer months, driven by the warm prairie climate, the surface water can reach a maximum range of 18∘C to 22∘C (64∘F to 72∘F), which is cool but allows for short periods of swimming. However, the water temperature drops rapidly outside of the peak season. In the winter, the water is near freezing, typically ranging from 0∘C to 4∘C (32∘F to 39∘F), with the river surface freezing over completely.
Swimming in the South Saskatchewan River is not recommended by the City of Saskatoon and is generally considered unsafe. While not explicitly prohibited city-wide, there are no designated swimming areas or lifeguards on the river. The main hazards are the strong, unpredictable currents and undertows, which are often hidden by the murky water and can be especially dangerous after heavy rainfall or snowmelt. Additionally, water quality is a concern, with potential for bacterial contamination, particularly after rain events. Any attempt to swim is solely at one's own risk, and residents are strongly advised to use the city's safer, supervised aquatic facilities instead.