Alsek River — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in the Alsek River, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in the Alsek River today is 8.9°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
❌ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 47°F (8°C) to 50°F (10°C). This is still cool water, suitable only for experienced swimmers or those accustomed to cold water. Swimming in such conditions is possible, but not recommended for prolonged periods. Extra caution should be taken during extended exposure, as the cold water can cause heat loss and lead to hypothermia. For added comfort, special clothing can be used. 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| AUG 24 | 10.6°C | 16.5°C | |
| AUG 25 | 11.1°C | 16.5°C | |
| AUG 26 | 10.9°C | 16.5°C | |
| AUG 27 | 9.4°C | 16.5°C | |
| AUG 28 | 9.4°C | 16.5°C | |
| AUG 29 | 9.4°C | 16.5°C | |
| AUG 30 | 8.9°C | 16.5°C | |
| AUG 31 | 8.9°C | 16.5°C | |
| SEP 1 | 16.0°C | 9.3°C | |
| SEP 2 | 16.0°C | 9.6°C | |
| SEP 3 | 16.0°C | 10.0°C | |
| SEP 4 | 16.0°C | 10.3°C | |
| SEP 5 | 16.0°C | 10.7°C | |
| SEP 6 | 16.0°C | 11.0°C | |
| SEP 7 | 16.0°C | 11.4°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 | 0°C | 8°C | 15°C |
| June | 4°C | 11°C | 18°C |
| July | 8°C | 16°C | 23°C |
| August | 8°C | 17°C | 24°C |
| September | 11°C | 16°C | 20°C |
| October | 7°C | 12°C | 16°C |
| November | 0°C | 6°C | 11°C |
| December | 0°C | 3°C | 6°C |
Alsek River: Water Temperature by Location
Alsek River: Weather Forecast
September 1
September 2
September 3
September 4
September 5
September 6
Location & Local Information
Source Kluane National Park and Reserve
• location Yukon
• coordinates 60°38′46″N 137°48′26″W
• elevation 562 m (1,844 ft)
Mouth Pacific Ocean
• location Dry Bay, Yakutat City and Borough, Alaska, Alaska
• coordinates 59°7′40″N 138°37′14″W
• elevation 0 m (0 ft)
Length 290 km (180 mi)
The Alsek River, originating in the Yukon and flowing through the Canadian wilderness before entering Alaska, is a prime example of a glacial river, which profoundly influences its water temperature. Due to its source in the vast St. Elias Mountains and glacial melt, the water remains extremely cold year-round. Even in the peak summer months, the river temperature rarely rises above 10∘C (50∘F), and is often only a few degrees above freezing. In the winter, the water is near the freezing point, around 0∘C to 4∘C (32∘F to 39∘F), with ice being a significant hazard.
Swimming in the Alsek River is strongly discouraged and exceptionally dangerous, and there are no official swimming areas. The water is far too cold to be safe for sustained human contact, presenting an immediate risk of cold shock and rapid hypothermia. Furthermore, the river is renowned for its extreme white water rafting and the presence of powerful, swift currents and large, turbulent rapids. Parks Canada explicitly warns that hypothermia and drowning are the two most common causes of death on the river. Any unplanned entry into the water, even during a rafting trip, carries dire consequences, with dry suits strongly recommended for all travelers.