Santa Cruz River — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in the Santa Cruz River, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in the Santa Cruz River today is 22.6°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| OCT 5 | 20.6°C | 17.5°C | |
| OCT 6 | 20.6°C | 17.5°C | |
| OCT 7 | 20.7°C | 17.5°C | |
| OCT 8 | 21.2°C | 17.5°C | |
| OCT 9 | 21.8°C | 17.5°C | |
| OCT 10 | 21.9°C | 17.5°C | |
| OCT 11 | 20.8°C | 17.5°C | |
| OCT 12 | 23.9°C | 17.5°C | |
| OCT 13 | 17.5°C | 22.3°C | |
| OCT 14 | 17.5°C | 22.1°C | |
| OCT 15 | 17.5°C | 21.8°C | |
| OCT 16 | 17.5°C | 21.6°C | |
| OCT 17 | 17.5°C | 21.3°C | |
| OCT 18 | 17.5°C | 21.1°C | |
| OCT 19 | 17.5°C | 20.8°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 | 3°C | 9°C | 16°C |
| February | 3°C | 9°C | 15°C |
| March | 3°C | 13°C | 23°C |
| April | 5°C | 14°C | 23°C |
| May | 8°C | 17°C | 26°C |
| June | 14°C | 22°C | 30°C |
| July | 17°C | 25°C | 33°C |
| August | 17°C | 26°C | 34°C |
| September | 11°C | 21°C | 30°C |
| October | 8°C | 18°C | 27°C |
| November | 3°C | 13°C | 22°C |
| December | 9°C | 13°C | 16°C |
Santa Cruz River: Water Temperature by Location
Santa Cruz River: Weather Forecast
October 13
October 14
October 15
October 16
October 17
October 18
Location & Local Information
Source San Rafael Valley
• location Santa Cruz County, Arizona
Mouth Gila River
• location Santa Cruz Flats
• elevation 1,014 ft (309 m)
Length 184 mi (296 km)
The Santa Cruz River in Arizona is a significant waterway that flows through the southern part of the state, including areas like Tucson. The river's water temperature can vary depending on the time of year and the location along its course. During the hot summer months, from June to August, the water temperature typically ranges from 70°F to 80°F (21°C to 27°C), which is relatively warm compared to other rivers in the region. However, due to the river's often shallow nature, low flow rates, and the presence of warm desert air, the water can feel quite warm, making it less refreshing for swimming compared to cooler rivers found in other parts of the country.
During the winter months, the water temperature in the Santa Cruz River cools to between 50°F and 60°F (10°C to 15°C), especially in areas where the flow is more limited. In these conditions, swimming becomes less appealing, as the water can feel cold and the currents may be more unpredictable. Additionally, the Santa Cruz River's water quality can be affected by runoff from urban areas, which can discourage people from swimming in certain parts of the river.
While the Santa Cruz River is not typically a prime destination for swimming, it does offer opportunities for other recreational activities such as hiking along its banks, birdwatching, and wildlife observation. Some areas may have deeper pools or calmer stretches where people might wade or cool off, but in general, people visiting the river are more likely to engage in activities like kayaking or simply enjoying the surrounding desert landscape rather than swimming in the river itself.