Fraser River — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in the Fraser River, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in the Fraser River today is 17.2°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| AUG 24 | 19.7°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 25 | 18.8°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 26 | 17.7°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 27 | 17.8°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 28 | 18.9°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 29 | 17.5°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 30 | 17.5°C | 19.0°C | |
| AUG 31 | 17.3°C | 19.0°C | |
| SEP 1 | 16.0°C | 17.1°C | |
| SEP 2 | 16.0°C | 17.1°C | |
| SEP 3 | 16.0°C | 17.0°C | |
| SEP 4 | 16.0°C | 17.0°C | |
| SEP 5 | 16.0°C | 16.9°C | |
| SEP 6 | 16.0°C | 16.8°C | |
| SEP 7 | 16.0°C | 16.8°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 | 14°C | 19°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 | 3°C | 6°C | 11°C |
| December | 0°C | 3°C | 6°C |
Fraser River: Water Temperature by Location
Fraser River: Weather Forecast
September 1
September 2
September 3
September 4
September 5
September 6
Location & Local Information
Source Fraser Pass
• location Mount Robson Provincial Park, Rocky Mountains, British Columbia, Canada
• coordinates 52°37′41″N 118°25′50″W
• elevation 2,145 m (7,037 ft)
Mouth Fraser River Delta
• location Strait of Georgia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
• coordinates 49°10′40″N 123°12′45″W
• elevation 0 m (0 ft)
Length 1,375 km (854 mi)
The Fraser River, the longest river in British Columbia, flows from the Rocky Mountains to the Pacific Ocean, passing through a wide range of climates and landscapes. Its water temperature varies greatly along its length and throughout the year, largely influenced by snowmelt, glacial runoff, and air temperature. In early spring, when melting begins, the river remains cold at about 37–43°F (3–6°C). As the season progresses, temperatures rise slowly, reaching around 50–57°F (10–14°C) by late May and June. During midsummer, particularly in the lower Fraser Valley near Vancouver, surface temperatures can reach 63–68°F (17–20°C) in calm, shallow areas, while upstream sections stay much cooler. By autumn, the river cools again, dropping below 55°F (13°C) as runoff decreases and nights grow colder.
Swimming in the Fraser River is allowed but not widely encouraged due to strong currents, unpredictable flow levels, and cold water temperatures. In many stretches, the current is powerful enough to pose a risk even to experienced swimmers. However, in calmer backwaters or side channels, people sometimes swim or wade during the warmest summer months. The lower reaches near parks and sandy banks can offer safer access points, but caution is essential. Overall, the Fraser River is more suitable for boating, fishing, and scenic enjoyment than for extended swimming.