Hay River — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in the Hay River, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in the Hay River today is 16.9°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 | 14.9°C | 18.0°C | |
| JUL 15 | 16.4°C | 18.0°C | |
| JUL 16 | 16.4°C | 18.0°C | |
| JUL 17 | 16.6°C | 18.0°C | |
| JUL 18 | 16.8°C | 18.0°C | |
| JUL 19 | 16.9°C | 18.0°C | |
| JUL 20 | 16.9°C | 18.0°C | |
| JUL 21 | 16.9°C | 18.0°C | |
| JUL 22 | 18.0°C | 17.0°C | |
| JUL 23 | 18.0°C | 17.0°C | |
| JUL 24 | 18.0°C | 17.1°C | |
| JUL 25 | 18.0°C | 17.1°C | |
| JUL 26 | 18.0°C | 17.2°C | |
| JUL 27 | 18.0°C | 17.2°C | |
| JUL 28 | 18.0°C | 17.3°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 | 12°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 |
Hay River: Water Temperature by Location
Hay River: Weather Forecast
July 22
July 23
July 24
July 25
July 26
July 27
Location & Local Information
Source:
• location Northern Alberta
• coordinates 58.08496°N 119.02201°W
• elevation 720 metres (2,360 ft)
Mouth:
• location Great Slave Lake at Hay River
• coordinates 60.86134°N 115.73290°W
• elevation 156 metres (512 ft)
Length 702 km (436 mi)
The Hay River, flowing through northwestern Alberta before crossing into the Northwest Territories and emptying into Great Slave Lake, experiences significant temperature variations throughout the year due to its northern location. In early spring, the river is still partially ice-covered, and surface temperatures average around 35–39°F (2–4°C). As snowmelt accelerates in late May and June, the water warms slightly to about 46–54°F (8–12°C). During midsummer, particularly in July and August, the upper sections of the river can reach 59–64°F (15–18°C), with shallow areas occasionally approaching 68°F (20°C) on warm days. By late September, cooling air and shorter days bring the temperature back below 52°F (11°C), and the river begins to chill rapidly heading into autumn.
Swimming in the Hay River is possible but not common due to the cold water and variable current. Even in summer, temperatures remain brisk, and hypothermia can develop after extended exposure. The river is better known for fishing, canoeing, and sightseeing along its scenic banks than for recreational swimming. In calm, shallow sections, especially during warm midsummer afternoons, short dips may be comfortable, but caution is always advised. The Hay River is best appreciated for its rugged northern beauty and its importance to local ecosystems rather than as a traditional swimming destination.