Ottawa River — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in the Ottawa River, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in the Ottawa River today is 15.6°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| SEP 13 | 17.3°C | 16.0°C | |
| SEP 14 | 16.4°C | 16.0°C | |
| SEP 15 | 17.2°C | 16.0°C | |
| SEP 16 | 17.4°C | 16.0°C | |
| SEP 17 | 15.9°C | 16.0°C | |
| SEP 18 | 16.4°C | 16.0°C | |
| SEP 19 | 16.7°C | 16.0°C | |
| SEP 20 | 16.5°C | 16.0°C | |
| SEP 21 | 16.0°C | 15.6°C | |
| SEP 22 | 16.0°C | 15.6°C | |
| SEP 23 | 16.0°C | 15.7°C | |
| SEP 24 | 16.0°C | 15.7°C | |
| SEP 25 | 16.0°C | 15.7°C | |
| SEP 26 | 16.0°C | 15.7°C | |
| SEP 27 | 16.0°C | 15.7°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 | 20°C |
| July | 15°C | 19°C | 24°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 |
Ottawa River: Water Temperature by Location
Ottawa River: Weather Forecast
September 21
September 22
September 23
September 24
September 25
September 26
Location & Local Information
Source Lac des Outaouais
• location Lac-Moselle, La Vallée-de-la-Gatineau RCM, Outaouais, Quebec, Canada
• coordinates 47°38′38″N 75°38′35″W
Mouth St. Lawrence River
• location Montreal, Quebec and Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
• coordinates 45°27′N 74°05′W
Length 1,271 km (790 mi)
The Ottawa River, flowing along the border between Ontario and Quebec, is one of eastern Canada’s major waterways and is widely used for recreation during the summer months. Its water temperature varies throughout the year, reflecting the region’s continental climate and snowmelt-driven flow. In early spring, after the ice breaks in April, the river remains cold, averaging around 39–45°F (4–7°C). By late May and June, surface temperatures rise to about 52–61°F (11–16°C). During midsummer, from July through August, the river reaches its warmest period, with surface temperatures ranging between 66–73°F (19–23°C) in calm, shallow areas, while deeper or faster-moving sections remain cooler. As autumn approaches, temperatures fall again below 57°F (14°C) by late September.
Swimming in the Ottawa River is allowed and popular at several designated beaches and recreation areas along its course, including those near Ottawa, Gatineau, and Pembroke. The water becomes comfortably warm for swimming during midsummer, especially in sheltered bays and slow-moving sections. However, swimmers should be cautious of currents and water quality advisories after heavy rains. The best time for swimming is from late June to early September, when both air and water temperatures are pleasant, making the Ottawa River an attractive destination for summer recreation and relaxation.