Milk River — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in the Milk River, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in the Milk River today is 14.5°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 54°F (12°C) to 60°F (15°C). The water is significantly warmer, and swimming becomes possible for most people. However, caution may still be required for prolonged stays in the water, as extended exposure can cause discomfort. This is a suitable temperature range for short swims and for those accustomed to cooler water. For more comfortable swimming, it is recommended to use proper gear. 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| JUN 3 | 13.0°C | 13.5°C | |
| JUN 4 | 14.0°C | 13.5°C | |
| JUN 5 | 14.3°C | 13.5°C | |
| JUN 6 | 14.5°C | 13.5°C | |
| JUN 7 | 14.7°C | 13.5°C | |
| JUN 8 | 14.6°C | 13.5°C | |
| JUN 10 | 14.4°C | 13.5°C | |
| JUN 11 | 13.5°C | 14.5°C | |
| JUN 12 | 13.5°C | 14.4°C | |
| JUN 13 | 13.5°C | 14.4°C | |
| JUN 14 | 13.5°C | 14.3°C | |
| JUN 15 | 13.5°C | 14.3°C | |
| JUN 16 | 13.5°C | 14.2°C | |
| JUN 17 | 13.5°C | 14.2°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 | 15°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 |
Milk River: Water Temperature by Location
Milk River: Weather Forecast
June 9
June 10
June 11
June 12
June 13
Location & Local Information
Source Confluence of South and Middle Forks
• location Glacier County, Montana
• coordinates 48°51′20″N 113°01′10″W
• elevation 4,403 ft (1,342 m)
Mouth Missouri River
• location Valley County, Montana
• coordinates 48°03′26″N 106°19′07″W
• elevation 2,024 ft (617 m)
Length 729 mi (1,173 km)
The Milk River flows through southern Alberta before crossing into northern Montana, forming part of the Missouri River basin. Its water temperature varies widely due to the dry prairie climate and its shallow, sun-exposed channels. In early spring, as snowmelt begins, the river remains cold, averaging around 39–45°F (4–7°C). By late May and June, as the weather warms, temperatures rise to about 54–63°F (12–17°C). During midsummer, from July through August, the Milk River reaches its warmest period, with surface temperatures often between 68–75°F (20–24°C), especially in Alberta’s stretches where the water is slower and shallower. As autumn approaches, cooler nights quickly lower the temperature again to around 55°F (13°C) or below by late September.
Swimming in the Milk River is allowed and sometimes enjoyed during the summer months, particularly in calm, sandy sections near Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park and other recreational spots. The water can be pleasantly warm compared to other rivers in Alberta, but its depth and flow change seasonally, which can affect safety. In high-water conditions, the current becomes stronger and visibility drops due to silt. During low-flow summer periods, however, the river becomes shallow and gentle enough for wading or floating. The best time for swimming is mid-July through August, when the air is hot and the water reaches its most comfortable temperature.