Can you swim here today?
Portage Creek
Alaska · River
Cold water — serious cold-shock risk today
Cold waterAs of August 21, 2026, the water temperature at Portage Creek is 47°F (9°C), measured by USGS gauge 15300300, 17.5 miles away.
Cold water — serious cold-shock risk today: water temperature is 47°F, cold enough to cause cold-water shock on sudden immersion.
- Water temperature is 47°F, cold enough to cause cold-water shock on sudden immersion. — USGS gauge 15300300, as of Aug 21, 4:30 PM gauge-local time
- Flow is above the 75th percentile for Aug 22 (median 809 ft³/s over 30 years); fast water is the top river-drowning risk. — USGS daily streamflow statistics, as of Aug 21, 4:30 PM gauge-local time
Flow is high for this date — above the 75th percentile for Aug 22 (median 809 ft³/s over 30 years).
No official beach-advisory feed for Alaska yet — follow posted signs and local guidance.
Live, provisional data from USGS gauge ILIAMNA R NR PEDRO BAY AK (17.5 mi away), as of Aug 21, 4:30 PM gauge-local time.
Before you get in
- Never swim alone — and keep weaker swimmers within arm's reach.
- Scout depth and entry/exit points before you get in.
- Read the current: avoid fast, rising, or murky water.
- Check the forecast — get out well before storms or lightning.
- Obey posted signs, flags, and lifeguard guidance.
Read next
Conditions are for general information only and can change quickly. Always judge the water in person and follow posted advisories and local guidance before swimming or paddling.