Liard River — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in the Liard River, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in the Liard River today is 5.8°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
❌ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 41°F (5°C) to 47°F (8°C). This water temperature is still quite low, and swimming in such conditions may only be comfortable for hardened individuals. It is recommended to limit the time spent in the water to avoid hypothermia. For those not accustomed to cold water, it is better to refrain from swimming. However, if you decide to enter the water, it is advisable to wear a warm wetsuit for protection against the cold. 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| SEP 14 | 7.1°C | 15.4°C | |
| SEP 15 | 7.6°C | 15.4°C | |
| SEP 16 | 7.6°C | 15.4°C | |
| SEP 17 | 7.1°C | 15.4°C | |
| SEP 18 | 6.5°C | 15.4°C | |
| SEP 19 | 6.3°C | 15.4°C | |
| SEP 20 | 5.5°C | 15.4°C | |
| SEP 21 | 5.8°C | 15.4°C | |
| SEP 22 | 15.4°C | 6.3°C | |
| SEP 23 | 15.4°C | 6.8°C | |
| SEP 24 | 15.4°C | 7.2°C | |
| SEP 25 | 15.4°C | 7.7°C | |
| SEP 26 | 15.4°C | 8.2°C | |
| SEP 27 | 15.4°C | 8.7°C | |
| SEP 28 | 15.4°C | 9.2°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 | 9°C | 17°C | 23°C |
| August | 10°C | 18°C | 24°C |
| September | 10°C | 15°C | 20°C |
| October | 7°C | 12°C | 16°C |
| November | 1°C | 7°C | 11°C |
| December | 0°C | 3°C | 6°C |
Liard River: Water Temperature by Location
Liard River: Weather Forecast
September 22
September 23
September 24
September 25
September 26
Location & Local Information
Source Mount Lewis
• location Pelly Mountains, Yukon
• coordinates 61°14′12″N 131°37′39″W
• elevation 1,500 m (4,900 ft)
Mouth Mackenzie River
• location Fort Simpson, Northwest Territories
• coordinates 61°50′23″N 121°17′58″W
• elevation 120 m (390 ft)
Length 1,115 km (693 mi)
The Liard River, flowing through northern British Columbia before continuing into the Yukon and Northwest Territories, is one of the region’s major wild rivers. Its water temperature is strongly influenced by snowmelt, glacial runoff, and the cool subarctic climate. In early spring, the river is extremely cold, often near freezing, averaging 37–41°F (3–5°C) as ice breaks up and meltwater surges. Through late spring and early summer, temperatures rise slightly to around 46–54°F (8–12°C), but the flow remains swift and cold. The warmest period occurs in July and August, when surface temperatures in slower or shallower sections can reach 59–64°F (15–18°C). By September, cooler air and reduced sunlight quickly lower the temperature again to about 50°F (10°C) or below.
Swimming in the Liard River is generally not recommended, though technically allowed in some accessible areas. The strong current, cold water, and remote conditions make it unsafe for prolonged swimming. Even during midsummer, hypothermia can occur quickly due to the low temperature. However, the Liard Hot Springs, located near the river, provide a natural and safe alternative for warm-water bathing. Those wishing to experience the river up close usually do so by canoeing, kayaking, or sightseeing rather than swimming directly in its frigid waters.