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 4.1°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
❌ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges less than 41°F (5°C). Such water is extremely cold and not recommended for swimming without proper preparation. In these conditions, the risk of hypothermia is very high, and prolonged exposure to the water can be hazardous to your health. If you decide to swim, it is important to have the appropriate gear, such as a wetsuit. Typically, only experienced swimmers or those who practice winter swimming venture into such waters. 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| OCT 26 | 6.0°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 27 | 5.2°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 28 | 4.8°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 29 | 4.5°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 30 | 5.3°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 31 | 4.2°C | 12.0°C | |
| NOV 1 | 3.9°C | 6.9°C | |
| NOV 2 | 4.1°C | 6.9°C | |
| NOV 3 | 6.9°C | 4.2°C | |
| NOV 4 | 6.9°C | 4.4°C | |
| NOV 5 | 6.9°C | 4.5°C | |
| NOV 6 | 6.9°C | 4.7°C | |
| NOV 7 | 6.9°C | 4.8°C | |
| NOV 8 | 6.9°C | 4.9°C | |
| NOV 9 | 6.9°C | 5.1°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
November 3
November 4
November 5
November 6
November 7
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.