Methods for diverting treatment fluids to less permeable zones of subterranean formations using a water swellable agent that can degrade at high temperatures are provided. In one embodiment, the method may comprise introducing a water swellable agent into or adjacent to a permeable zone of a subterranean formation; introducing an aqueous solution into the subterranean formation to contact the water swellable agent; allowing the water swellable agent to swell when contacted by the aqueous solution; introducing a treatment fluid into the subterranean formation, wherein the water swellable agent diverts the treatment fluid away from the permeable zone; and allowing the water swellable agent to thermally degrade.