Williston Lake — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Williston Lake, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Williston Lake today is 16.8°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| JUL 14 | 14.0°C | 17.5°C | |
| JUL 15 | 15.4°C | 17.5°C | |
| JUL 16 | 15.5°C | 17.5°C | |
| JUL 17 | 15.5°C | 17.5°C | |
| JUL 18 | 15.7°C | 17.5°C | |
| JUL 19 | 15.9°C | 17.5°C | |
| JUL 20 | 15.8°C | 17.5°C | |
| JUL 21 | 15.8°C | 17.5°C | |
| JUL 22 | 17.5°C | 16.8°C | |
| JUL 23 | 17.5°C | 16.9°C | |
| JUL 24 | 17.5°C | 16.9°C | |
| JUL 25 | 17.5°C | 16.9°C | |
| JUL 26 | 17.5°C | 17.0°C | |
| JUL 27 | 17.5°C | 17.0°C | |
| JUL 28 | 17.5°C | 17.0°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 | 11°C | 18°C | 23°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 |
Williston Lake: Water Temperature by Location
Williston Lake: Weather Forecast
July 22
July 23
July 24
July 25
July 26
July 27
Location & Local Information
Williston Lake, situated in northern British Columbia, is one of the largest reservoirs in North America, formed by the W.A.C. Bennett Dam on the Peace River. Due to its vast size, depth, and northern location, the lake’s water remains cool for much of the year. In spring, after the ice melts in April or May, the surface temperature averages around 39–45°F (4–7°C). Through early summer, the water slowly warms, reaching 50–59°F (10–15°C) by June. The warmest period is from mid-July through August, when the surface temperature in shallow bays and near the shore can reach 63–68°F (17–20°C). However, much of the lake remains significantly colder below the surface. By late September, cooler weather brings the temperature back below 55°F (13°C).
Swimming in Williston Lake is allowed but not widely practiced due to its cold water, large waves, and often unpredictable weather. The best opportunities for swimming are during midsummer in sheltered areas near the shore, where the water is shallower and warmer. Even then, swimmers should be cautious, as the lake’s deep, cold waters can cause rapid heat loss. For most visitors, Williston Lake is better suited for boating, fishing, and sightseeing rather than extended swimming activities.