Barwon River – current river water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current river water temperature at Barwon River in Victoria. 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 Barwon River today is 14°C.
Water Temperature in Barwon 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 Barwon 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 Barwon River will be 12.3°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apr 28 | 15.4°C | 12.7°C | |
| Apr 29 | 15.3°C | 12.7°C | |
| Apr 30 | 15.1°C | 12.7°C | |
| May 1 | 14.5°C | 12.7°C | |
| May 2 | 14.6°C | 12.7°C | |
| May 3 | 14.5°C | 12.7°C | |
| May 4 | 14.6°C | 12.7°C | |
| May 5 | 14.8°C | 12.7°C | |
| May 6 | 14.3°C | 12.7°C | 14.3°C |
| May 7 | 12.7°C | 14.0°C | |
| May 8 | 12.7°C | 13.7°C | |
| May 9 | 12.7°C | 13.4°C | |
| May 10 | 12.7°C | 13.2°C | |
| May 11 | 12.7°C | 12.9°C | |
| May 12 | 12.7°C | 12.6°C | |
| May 13 | 12.7°C | 12.3°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 | 19°C | 22°C | 24°C |
| February | 17°C | 21°C | 23°C |
| March | 18°C | 20°C | 22°C |
| April | 14°C | 17°C | 19°C |
| May | 11°C | 13°C | 15°C |
| June | 7°C | 10°C | 12°C |
| July | 7°C | 9°C | 10°C |
| August | 8°C | 11°C | 12°C |
| September | 9°C | 13°C | 15°C |
| October | 12°C | 16°C | 18°C |
| November | 12°C | 18°C | 21°C |
| December | 14°C | 20°C | 23°C |
Barwon River: Water Temperature by Location
Location & Local Information
Source Otway Ranges
• location south of Birregurra
• elevation 295 m (968 ft)
Mouth Bass Strait
• location Barwon Heads
• coordinates 38°17′12″S 144°29′59″E
• elevation 0 m (0 ft)
Length 160 km (99 mi)
The Barwon River winds through south-west Victoria from the Otway foothills to the coast near Barwon Heads, and its water temperature reflects the region’s cool-temperate climate. In summer, from December to February, the river typically sits around 18–22°C, sometimes edging a little warmer in slow-moving stretches and shallow pools during hot weather. Spring and autumn are milder but cooler, with water temperatures generally in the 14–18°C range. Winter brings the coldest conditions, often around 9–13°C, especially after rain or during overcast periods. Being a lowland river, temperature changes are usually gradual rather than sudden.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in the Barwon River is generally allowed and quite popular in certain sections, particularly in summer. Around towns and well-known river bends, locals often swim in calmer stretches where access is easy and the current is gentle. During warm weather, the water temperature is usually comfortable enough for a proper swim, though it still feels refreshing rather than warm. Water quality is generally good, but conditions can vary after heavy rain, when flows increase and visibility drops. In the lower reaches, tidal influence and boat traffic mean swimmers need to be more cautious. With settled conditions and sensible spot choice, the Barwon offers relaxed and enjoyable river swimming through the warmer months.