Portland — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Portland, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Portland today is 17.8°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| SEP 14 | 18.1°C | 16.0°C | |
| SEP 15 | 18.4°C | 16.0°C | |
| SEP 16 | 18.4°C | 16.0°C | |
| SEP 17 | 18.2°C | 16.0°C | |
| SEP 18 | 17.0°C | 16.0°C | |
| SEP 19 | 17.6°C | 16.0°C | |
| SEP 20 | 18.0°C | 16.0°C | |
| SEP 21 | 17.8°C | 16.0°C | |
| SEP 22 | 16.0°C | 17.7°C | |
| SEP 23 | 16.0°C | 17.6°C | |
| SEP 24 | 16.0°C | 17.5°C | |
| SEP 25 | 16.0°C | 17.4°C | |
| SEP 26 | 16.0°C | 17.4°C | |
| SEP 27 | 16.0°C | 17.3°C | |
| SEP 28 | 16.0°C | 17.2°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 | 3°C | 4°C | 9°C |
| February | 3°C | 5°C | 9°C |
| March | 3°C | 8°C | 13°C |
| April | 5°C | 10°C | 16°C |
| May | 8°C | 13°C | 21°C |
| June | 14°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| July | 16°C | 21°C | 25°C |
| August | 17°C | 20°C | 24°C |
| September | 11°C | 16°C | 21°C |
| October | 8°C | 13°C | 16°C |
| November | 3°C | 8°C | 16°C |
| December | 3°C | 7°C | 12°C |
Portland: Weather Forecast
September 21
September 22
September 23
September 24
September 25
September 26
Location & Local Information
In Portland, Oregon, the Columbia River flows through the city, offering opportunities for various water activities such as boating, kayaking, and fishing. However, swimming in the Columbia River is generally not recommended due to the river's cold temperatures, fast currents, and the presence of occasional debris. During the summer months, the water temperature typically ranges from 60°F to 70°F (15°C to 21°C), which can be refreshing for brief dips but may be too cold for comfortable, prolonged swimming. In early spring and late fall, the water temperature can drop to 40°F to 50°F (4°C to 10°C), making swimming unsafe and highly uncomfortable.
Despite these chilly temperatures, the Columbia River is popular for recreational boating and other activities, particularly around the areas of Tom McCall Waterfront Park and the area near the Hawthorne Bridge. Swimming is less common, and those who choose to enter the water are typically prepared with wet suits or other gear to protect against the cold. The river’s currents can also be dangerous, so safety is a primary concern for anyone considering swimming.
For those seeking a safer and warmer swimming experience, Portland has a variety of public pools and nearby lakes, like the Columbia Slough, that offer designated swimming areas with controlled conditions. Locations such as the Sellwood Riverfront Park provide opportunities for water recreation in more secure, accessible environments, making them more suitable for swimming compared to the Columbia River itself.