Arthur River – current river water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current river water temperature at Arthur River in Tasmania. You can explore recent temperature trends, typical monthly ranges, and historical averages for this date. The page also includes a 7-day water temperature forecast, local weather conditions, and an overview of how suitable the river is for swimming.
Current Water Temperature
The water temperature in Arthur River today is 15°C.
Water Temperature in Arthur River: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ River water between 10 and 15°C is cold but manageable for short swims, especially on sunny days with warm air temperatures. The moving nature of a river can make the water feel colder than the actual reading, particularly in shaded or deeper sections. Casual swimming is usually brief, with wetsuits often preferred. Windy or cool weather can significantly reduce comfort, even when the air temperature is mild.
Water Temperature Over the Last 30 Days
Water temperatures in Arthur River have been gradually cooling over the past month, with a further drop recorded during the last week.
According to our forecast, the water temperature in Arthur River will be 15.7°C in the next 7 days. See the table below for daily data for the upcoming week.
Table of Daily Water Temperature Data
| Date | Current | Average | Forecast |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mar 12 | 15.0°C | 15.8°C | |
| Mar 13 | 15.0°C | 15.8°C | |
| Mar 14 | 15.0°C | 15.8°C | |
| Mar 15 | 15.0°C | 15.8°C | |
| Mar 16 | 14.8°C | 15.8°C | |
| Mar 17 | 14.8°C | 15.8°C | |
| Mar 18 | 14.7°C | 15.8°C | |
| Mar 19 | 14.7°C | 15.8°C | |
| Mar 20 | 14.7°C | 15.8°C | 14.7°C |
| Mar 21 | 15.8°C | 14.8°C | |
| Mar 22 | 15.8°C | 15.0°C | |
| Mar 23 | 15.8°C | 15.1°C | |
| Mar 24 | 15.8°C | 15.3°C | |
| Mar 25 | 15.8°C | 15.4°C | |
| Mar 26 | 15.8°C | 15.5°C | |
| Mar 27 | 15.8°C | 15.7°C |
* Current - Actual water temperature value
** Average - Average water temperature on this day in recent years
*** Forecast - Our water temperature forecast
Actual river water temperatures may vary by several degrees from the reported values, particularly after heavy rainfall or periods of changing weather. Rainfall, river flow rates, and runoff from cooler upstream areas can significantly affect water temperature, especially in flowing sections and shaded stretches. Air temperature and cloud cover also play an important role, with warm, sunny conditions helping rivers warm up more quickly. As a result, noticeable temperature differences can occur along the same river.
Our forecast is based on a proprietary mathematical model that takes into account real-time river temperature changes, historical data, seasonal patterns, river flow conditions, recent rainfall, and local air temperature. We also factor in broader weather conditions specific to each region of Australia to improve accuracy.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Today | Yesterday | A Week Ago |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 15°C | 17°C | 19°C |
| February | 15°C | 17°C | 19°C |
| March | 14°C | 16°C | 19°C |
| April | 11°C | 14°C | 16°C |
| May | 9°C | 11°C | 14°C |
| June | 8°C | 10°C | 11°C |
| July | 7°C | 9°C | 10°C |
| August | 8°C | 9°C | 11°C |
| September | 8°C | 10°C | 11°C |
| October | 9°C | 12°C | 14°C |
| November | 11°C | 14°C | 16°C |
| December | 13°C | 16°C | 19°C |
Location & Local Information
The Arthur River flows through the remote north-west of Tasmania, winding through dense forest and open coastal plains before reaching the Southern Ocean. Its water temperature reflects the island’s cool, maritime climate. In summer, the river usually sits around 16–20°C, which feels crisp but refreshing on warmer days. Spring and autumn are cooler again, generally ranging between 12–16°C, while winter water temperatures often drop to about 8–12°C. Even in the height of summer, the river rarely feels warm, especially in shaded sections or after periods of rain.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in the Arthur River is generally allowed, but it tends to be occasional rather than regular. Locals and visitors usually choose calm, sheltered pools during summer, when water levels are stable and temperatures are at their highest for the year. The river is typically clean and lightly impacted, which supports safe swimming in good conditions. However, after heavy rainfall the water can become colder, darker, and faster-flowing, making swimming unsuitable. Because of the consistently cool temperatures, most swims are short and refreshing rather than relaxed or prolonged. Overall, the Arthur River offers a natural, quiet swimming experience in summer, best suited to confident swimmers who don’t mind cooler water and prefer a wild, uncrowded setting.