Red River of the North — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in the Red River of the North, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in the Red River of the North today is 22.2°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
✅ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 68°F (20°C) to 74°F (23°C). The water is warm and pleasant for swimming, and in this range, one can stay in the water for extended periods without the risk of hypothermia. This is the ideal temperature for relaxation, swimming, and water sports. Families with children, as well as outdoor enthusiasts, will enjoy swimming and time spent in the water. For most people, this is the optimal temperature for a comfortable beach experience. 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 4 | 17.9°C | 14.6°C | |
| JUN 5 | 18.5°C | 14.6°C | |
| JUN 6 | 18.0°C | 14.6°C | |
| JUN 7 | 18.2°C | 14.6°C | |
| JUN 8 | 18.5°C | 14.6°C | |
| JUN 10 | 19.1°C | 14.6°C | |
| JUN 11 | 19.3°C | 14.6°C | |
| JUN 12 | 14.6°C | 21.8°C | |
| JUN 13 | 14.6°C | 21.4°C | |
| JUN 14 | 14.6°C | 21.1°C | |
| JUN 15 | 14.6°C | 20.7°C | |
| JUN 16 | 14.6°C | 20.3°C | |
| JUN 17 | 14.6°C | 19.9°C | |
| JUN 18 | 14.6°C | 19.5°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 | 2°C | 5°C |
| February | 0°C | 3°C | 4°C |
| March | 0°C | 3°C | 7°C |
| April | 0°C | 5°C | 11°C |
| May | 4°C | 11°C | 18°C |
| June | 7°C | 15°C | 23°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 | 3°C | 6°C | 11°C |
| December | 0°C | 3°C | 6°C |
Red River of the North: Water Temperature by Location
Red River of the North: Weather Forecast
June 12
June 13
June 14
June 15
June 16
Location & Local Information
Source Confluence of Bois de Sioux and Otter Tail Rivers
• location Wahpeton, North Dakota
• coordinates 46°15′52″N 96°35′55″W
• elevation 948 ft (289 m)
Mouth Lake Winnipeg
• coordinates 50°23′47″N 96°48′39″W
• elevation 712 ft (217 m)
Length 550 mi (890 km)
The Red River of the North, which flows from the United States into Manitoba, Canada, is a long, slow-moving prairie river with significant temperature fluctuations. In the peak summer months, the surface water can warm considerably due to the hot continental climate, generally reaching a range of 21∘C to 26∘C (70∘F to 79∘F), making it one of the warmer rivers in the region. Conversely, in the winter, the river is near freezing, typically ranging from 0∘C to 3∘C (32∘F to 37∘F), and is frozen over for months.
Swimming in the Red River is generally discouraged by authorities and is unpopular among locals, despite being technically permitted in some areas. The main deterrents are water quality concerns, particularly elevated bacteria levels from storm and sewage runoff, and the river's murky appearance due to high silt content. While the current is often slow, unpredictable flow after heavy rain and the danger of debris also make swimming hazardous. Any decision to swim is strictly at one's own risk, though organized events, such as the long-distance END-WET swim race in the US portion, demonstrate that swimming is possible under highly controlled, competitive conditions.