South Saskatchewan River — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in the South Saskatchewan River, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in the South Saskatchewan River today is 4.3°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 | 7.0°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 27 | 6.2°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 28 | 5.5°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 29 | 5.3°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 30 | 5.6°C | 12.0°C | |
| OCT 31 | 5.3°C | 12.0°C | |
| NOV 1 | 4.8°C | 6.3°C | |
| NOV 2 | 4.3°C | 6.3°C | |
| NOV 3 | 6.3°C | 4.4°C | |
| NOV 4 | 6.3°C | 4.5°C | |
| NOV 5 | 6.3°C | 4.6°C | |
| NOV 6 | 6.3°C | 4.7°C | |
| NOV 7 | 6.3°C | 4.8°C | |
| NOV 8 | 6.3°C | 4.9°C | |
| NOV 9 | 6.3°C | 5.0°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 | 10°C | 17°C |
| June | 7°C | 14°C | 21°C |
| July | 15°C | 20°C | 25°C |
| August | 17°C | 19°C | 24°C |
| September | 11°C | 17°C | 23°C |
| October | 7°C | 12°C | 16°C |
| November | 1°C | 6°C | 11°C |
| December | 0°C | 3°C | 6°C |
South Saskatchewan River: Water Temperature by Location
South Saskatchewan River: Weather Forecast
November 3
November 4
November 5
November 6
November 7
Location & Local Information
Source confluence Oldman and Bow Rivers
• location Municipal District of Taber, Alberta
• coordinates 49°56′00″N 111°41′30″W
• elevation 700 m (2,300 ft)
Mouth Saskatchewan River
• location Saskatchewan River Forks, Saskatchewan
• coordinates 53°14′6″N 105°4′58″W
• elevation 380 m (1,250 ft)
Length 1,392 km (865 mi)
The South Saskatchewan River, flowing through southern Alberta before joining the North Saskatchewan River in Saskatchewan, is a major prairie waterway fed by the Bow and Oldman Rivers. Because it receives water from the eastern slopes of the Rocky Mountains, the river stays cool for most of the year. In early spring, after the ice melts, the surface temperature averages around 37–43°F (3–6°C). As the air warms through May and June, the water temperature rises to approximately 50–57°F (10–14°C). During midsummer, from July through August, the river reaches its warmest period, with surface temperatures in calmer stretches often between 61–68°F (16–20°C). By late September, as nights become cooler and runoff decreases, the temperature drops again below 55°F (13°C).
Swimming in the South Saskatchewan River is permitted but approached with caution due to the river’s strong current, shifting sandbars, and cold water. Even during the warmest months, prolonged exposure can be uncomfortable, and the flow may pose risks for inexperienced swimmers. In calmer, shallow areas along the riverbanks, wading or brief swims are possible on hot days. However, many residents prefer nearby lakes or reservoirs for safer swimming conditions. The river is best suited for kayaking, fishing, and sightseeing rather than for recreational swimming.