Can you swim here today?
South Branch Bear Creek
Michigan · River
Cold water — serious cold-shock risk today
Cold waterAs of August 22, 2026, the water temperature at South Branch Bear Creek is 57°F (14°C), measured by USGS gauge 04043016, 15.6 miles away.
Cold water — serious cold-shock risk today: water temperature is 57°F, cold enough to cause cold-water shock on sudden immersion.
- Water temperature is 57°F, cold enough to cause cold-water shock on sudden immersion. — USGS gauge 04043016, as of Aug 22, 10:45 AM gauge-local time
- Flow is within the normal range (25th–75th percentile) for Aug 22 (median 14 ft³/s over 10 years). — USGS daily streamflow statistics, as of Aug 22, 10:45 AM gauge-local time
Flow is normal for this date — within the normal range (25th–75th percentile) for Aug 22 (median 14 ft³/s over 10 years).
No official beach-advisory feed for Michigan yet — follow posted signs and local guidance.
Live, provisional data from USGS gauge PILGRIM RIVER AT PARADISE RD NR DODGEVILLE, MI (15.6 mi away), as of Aug 22, 10:45 AM 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.