Balranald – water temperature at Murrumbidgee River
This page provides up-to-date information about the water temperature at Balranald, located on the Murrumbidgee River in New South Wales. Here you can check current conditions, view recent temperature trends, explore typical monthly ranges, and compare today’s reading with historical averages for this date. The page also includes a 7-day water temperature forecast, local weather information, and swimming conditions.
Current Water Temperature
The water temperature in Murrumbidgee River at Balranald today is 13°C.
Water Temperature in Murrumbidgee River at Balranald: 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
Over the last 30 days, water temperatures in Balranald have trended upward, with conditions remaining relatively stable over the past week.
According to our forecast, the water temperature in Balranald will be 11.7°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aug 14 | 13.0°C | 11.5°C | |
| Aug 15 | 13.0°C | 11.5°C | |
| Aug 16 | 13.0°C | 11.5°C | |
| Aug 17 | 13.0°C | 11.5°C | |
| Aug 18 | 13.0°C | 11.5°C | |
| Aug 19 | 13.0°C | 11.5°C | |
| Aug 20 | 13.0°C | 11.5°C | |
| Aug 21 | 13.0°C | 11.5°C | |
| Aug 22 | 13.0°C | 11.5°C | 13.0°C |
| Aug 23 | 11.5°C | 12.8°C | |
| Aug 24 | 11.5°C | 12.6°C | |
| Aug 25 | 11.5°C | 12.4°C | |
| Aug 26 | 11.5°C | 12.3°C | |
| Aug 27 | 11.5°C | 12.1°C | |
| Aug 28 | 11.5°C | 11.9°C | |
| Aug 29 | 11.5°C | 11.7°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 | 22°C | 27°C |
| February | 15°C | 20°C | 26°C |
| March | 15°C | 20°C | 25°C |
| April | 16°C | 18°C | 21°C |
| May | 12°C | 14°C | 16°C |
| June | 10°C | 11°C | 12°C |
| July | 9°C | 10°C | 11°C |
| August | 10°C | 12°C | 13°C |
| September | 12°C | 14°C | 17°C |
| October | 13°C | 20°C | 30°C |
| November | 16°C | 23°C | 41°C |
| December | 16°C | 24°C | 37°C |
Location & Local Information
Balranald sits right on the banks of the Murrumbidgee River, and the river plays a big role in local life, especially when it comes to cooling off. Water temperatures here follow the inland New South Wales climate pretty closely. In summer, from December through February, the Murrumbidgee around Balranald is usually in the range of about 22–26°C, and during long hot spells it can feel even warmer in slower sections. Spring and autumn are milder, with water temperatures generally hovering between 15–20°C. Winter is a different story altogether, with the river often dropping to around 8–12°C, which is cold enough to make swimming a short and sharp experience.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in the Murrumbidgee at Balranald is allowed and fairly common, particularly in summer when daytime temperatures soar. Locals often use familiar river access points where the banks are gentle and the flow is slower. The water is usually comfortable for a proper swim in the warmer months, not just a quick splash. Still, the river demands respect. Currents can be stronger after upstream releases or rain, and there are snags and sudden depth changes in places. Choosing well-known spots and avoiding swimming during high flows makes the experience much safer and more enjoyable.