Ashburton River – current river water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current river water temperature at Ashburton River in Western Australia. 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 Ashburton River today is 27°C.
Water Temperature in Ashburton River: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
✅ River temperatures above 25°C feel warm and are well suited to leisurely swimming and floating. Comfort remains high even if air temperatures are slightly cooler, though hot weather can make the water feel less refreshing. In slower-flowing rivers, very warm water may feel stagnant, especially during heatwaves. Weather conditions such as strong sun or high humidity can further influence how pleasant the swim feels.
Water Temperature Over the Last 30 Days
Water temperatures in Ashburton River have been on a steady rise over the past month and have continued to climb over the last week.
According to our forecast, the water temperature in Ashburton River will be 23.9°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oct 7 | 26.6°C | 23.3°C | |
| Oct 8 | 26.6°C | 23.3°C | |
| Oct 9 | 26.2°C | 23.3°C | |
| Oct 10 | 26.3°C | 23.3°C | |
| Oct 11 | 26.8°C | 23.3°C | |
| Oct 12 | 26.9°C | 23.3°C | |
| Oct 13 | 27.0°C | 23.3°C | |
| Oct 14 | 27.1°C | 23.3°C | |
| Oct 15 | 27.2°C | 23.3°C | 27.2°C |
| Oct 16 | 23.3°C | 26.7°C | |
| Oct 17 | 23.3°C | 26.3°C | |
| Oct 18 | 23.3°C | 25.8°C | |
| Oct 19 | 23.3°C | 25.3°C | |
| Oct 20 | 23.3°C | 24.8°C | |
| Oct 21 | 23.3°C | 24.4°C | |
| Oct 22 | 23.3°C | 23.9°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 | 25°C | 28°C | 30°C |
| February | 26°C | 29°C | 31°C |
| March | 24°C | 26°C | 28°C |
| April | 20°C | 23°C | 25°C |
| May | 16°C | 18°C | 21°C |
| June | 13°C | 15°C | 18°C |
| July | 13°C | 15°C | 17°C |
| August | 14°C | 17°C | 19°C |
| September | 17°C | 20°C | 22°C |
| October | 19°C | 23°C | 26°C |
| November | 24°C | 26°C | 28°C |
| December | 25°C | 27°C | 29°C |
Ashburton River: Water Temperature by Location
Paraburdoo
Tom Price
Location & Local Information
Source:
• location Pilbara region
• coordinates 21°41′25″S 114°54′53″E
• elevation 571 m (1,873 ft)[1]
Mouth:
• location Indian Ocean 20 km (12 mi) SW of Onslow
• coordinates 21.73760°S 114.93941°E
Length 680 km (423 mi)
The Ashburton River flows through the Pilbara, a region known for its intense heat and highly seasonal rivers. Water temperature in the Ashburton depends heavily on rainfall, as the river is usually dry or reduced to isolated pools for much of the year. After summer rain or cyclone activity, when water is present, temperatures are typically warm. In summer, from December to February, water in deeper pools often sits around 26–32°C, heating quickly under the Pilbara sun. Autumn and spring are slightly milder, with water temperatures generally around 22–28°C. Winter is cooler but still relatively mild, usually in the 18–22°C range, especially in shaded or deeper sections that retain water longer.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in the Ashburton River is generally allowed when water is present, but it’s very much dependent on conditions and location. In inland sections, people may swim in permanent or semi-permanent pools after good rain, and the warm water can be appealing, particularly in the hotter months. However, water quality can deteriorate as pools stagnate, and banks are often steep, muddy or unstable. In lower reaches closer to the coast, the river is considered crocodile habitat, and swimming is strongly discouraged. Because of these factors, swimming in the Ashburton tends to be occasional and cautious, relying on local knowledge and good timing rather than being a regular activity.