Hood Canal — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Hood Canal, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Hood Canal today is 14.1°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 | 15.6°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 6 | 15.6°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 7 | 15.7°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 8 | 15.2°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 9 | 14.8°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 10 | 14.6°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 11 | 14.4°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 14.2°C | 15.5°C | |
| OCT 13 | 15.5°C | 14.2°C | |
| OCT 14 | 15.5°C | 14.2°C | |
| OCT 15 | 15.5°C | 14.3°C | |
| OCT 16 | 15.5°C | 14.4°C | |
| OCT 17 | 15.5°C | 14.5°C | |
| OCT 18 | 15.5°C | 14.5°C | |
| OCT 19 | 15.5°C | 14.6°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 | 7°C |
| February | 2°C | 5°C | 8°C |
| March | 3°C | 7°C | 11°C |
| April | 6°C | 11°C | 15°C |
| May | 10°C | 16°C | 21°C |
| June | 12°C | 18°C | 24°C |
| July | 15°C | 24°C | 31°C |
| August | 18°C | 24°C | 30°C |
| September | 16°C | 21°C | 26°C |
| October | 11°C | 16°C | 20°C |
| November | 6°C | 10°C | 14°C |
| December | 4°C | 7°C | 9°C |
Hood Canal: Water Temperature by Location
Hood Canal: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
Location & Local Information
Hood Canal is not a lake but a long, narrow fjord branching off Puget Sound in Washington, and its surface water temperatures are strongly influenced by season, depth and local exposure. Typical seasonal surface ranges run roughly from the low 40s to upper 60s Fahrenheit: winter waters commonly are around 40–48°F (4–9°C), spring often warms to about 45–55°F (7–13°C), summer surface temperatures commonly reach about 55–65°F (13–18°C) with sheltered shallow bays occasionally touching the upper 60s°F (around 20°C) during heat spells, and fall generally cools back to roughly 50–60°F (10–16°C). Deeper water remains colder year-round, and temperatures vary by location along the canal and by tidal mixing.
Swimming in Hood Canal is generally allowed, but conditions require caution. Cold water poses a real risk of cold shock and hypothermia, especially outside the warmest summer weeks, and strong currents, tides and boat traffic are additional hazards. Water quality can vary by spot and season, so local advisories should be checked before entering; lifeguards are uncommon at many access points. Many swimmers use wetsuits or limit time in the water to reduce risks, and safe swimming usually means choosing sheltered shorelines, being mindful of tides, and avoiding solo swims.