Slave River — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in the Slave River, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in the Slave River today is 19.5°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 65°F (18°C) to 68°F (20°C). This is already quite warm water, which is ideal for most people. Swimming becomes comfortable, and prolonged stays in the water do not cause discomfort. This temperature is perfect for family trips and for those who prefer warmer water. It is also comfortable for water sports such as surfing or swimming. 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| AUG 24 | 19.0°C | 20.4°C | |
| AUG 25 | 19.7°C | 20.4°C | |
| AUG 26 | 19.5°C | 20.4°C | |
| AUG 27 | 19.2°C | 20.4°C | |
| AUG 28 | 19.2°C | 20.4°C | |
| AUG 29 | 19.7°C | 20.4°C | |
| AUG 30 | 19.7°C | 20.4°C | |
| AUG 31 | 19.5°C | 20.4°C | |
| SEP 1 | 16.0°C | 19.3°C | |
| SEP 2 | 16.0°C | 19.2°C | |
| SEP 3 | 16.0°C | 19.0°C | |
| SEP 4 | 16.0°C | 18.8°C | |
| SEP 5 | 16.0°C | 18.6°C | |
| SEP 6 | 16.0°C | 18.5°C | |
| SEP 7 | 16.0°C | 18.3°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 | 2°C | 9°C | 16°C |
| June | 7°C | 14°C | 21°C |
| July | 15°C | 19°C | 24°C |
| August | 16°C | 20°C | 24°C |
| September | 11°C | 16°C | 20°C |
| October | 7°C | 12°C | 16°C |
| November | 0°C | 6°C | 11°C |
| December | 0°C | 3°C | 6°C |
Slave River: Water Temperature by Location
Slave River: Weather Forecast
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September 6
Location & Local Information
Source:
• location Peace-Athabasca Delta
• coordinates 58.99793°N 111.40906°W
• elevation 210 m (690 ft)
Mouth:
• location Great Slave Lake
• coordinates 61.28019°N 113.58798°W
• elevation 160 m (520 ft)
Length 434 km (270 mi)
The Slave River is a major, fast-flowing river in northern Alberta and the Northwest Territories, originating from the Peace-Athabasca Delta. Its water temperatures are extremely cold due to its northern location and significant volume. In the peak summer months, the surface water temperature rarely rises above a very cool range, typically peaking around 17∘C to 20∘C (63∘F to 68∘F). Conversely, in the winter, the water is near freezing, usually in the range of 0∘C to 4∘C (32∘F to 39∘F), with long stretches of the river freezing over.
Swimming in the Slave River is strongly discouraged and exceptionally dangerous, with no official, designated swimming areas. The cold water poses an immediate risk of cold shock and rapid hypothermia, which can incapacitate a swimmer in minutes, even in summer. The primary hazard, however, is the river's immense current and flow rate, which creates powerful, unpredictable undertows that can easily sweep away and drown even strong swimmers. The river is also known for its Class I to Class VI rapids, particularly near Fort Smith, making any unmonitored water entry solely at one's own risk.