Can you swim here today?
North Branch Bear Creek
Michigan · River
Cold water — serious cold-shock risk today
Cold waterAs of August 23, 2026, the water temperature at North Branch Bear Creek is 57°F (14°C), measured by USGS gauge 04043097, 14.9 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 04043097, as of Aug 23, 12:30 PM gauge-local time
- Flow is within the normal range (25th–75th percentile) for Aug 23 (median 23 ft³/s over 12 years). — USGS daily streamflow statistics, as of Aug 23, 12:30 PM gauge-local time
Flow is normal for this date — within the normal range (25th–75th percentile) for Aug 23 (median 23 ft³/s over 12 years).
No official beach-advisory feed for Michigan yet — follow posted signs and local guidance.
Live, provisional data from USGS gauge FALLS RIVER NEAR L'ANSE, MI (14.9 mi away), as of Aug 23, 12:30 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.