Bellinger River – current river water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current river water temperature at Bellinger River in New South Wales. 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 Bellinger River today is 19°C.
Water Temperature in Bellinger River: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ A river temperature of 15 to 20°C is generally considered cool to comfortable for swimming in Australia. On warm, calm days, this range allows for relaxed swimming and longer time in the water. Comfort depends heavily on air temperature and sunshine, as cooler weather can still make the water feel chilly. This range is popular for river swimming during spring and early autumn.
Water Temperature Over the Last 30 Days
Water temperatures in Bellinger 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 Bellinger River will be 14.5°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 | 19.5°C | 14.0°C | |
| Apr 29 | 19.4°C | 14.0°C | |
| Apr 30 | 19.3°C | 14.0°C | |
| May 1 | 18.9°C | 14.0°C | |
| May 2 | 18.9°C | 14.0°C | |
| May 3 | 18.8°C | 14.0°C | |
| May 4 | 18.7°C | 14.0°C | |
| May 5 | 18.7°C | 14.0°C | |
| May 6 | 18.7°C | 14.0°C | 18.7°C |
| May 7 | 14.0°C | 18.1°C | |
| May 8 | 14.0°C | 17.5°C | |
| May 9 | 14.0°C | 16.9°C | |
| May 10 | 14.0°C | 16.3°C | |
| May 11 | 14.0°C | 15.7°C | |
| May 12 | 14.0°C | 15.1°C | |
| May 13 | 14.0°C | 14.5°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 | 17°C | 23°C | 27°C |
| February | 15°C | 22°C | 25°C |
| March | 15°C | 20°C | 24°C |
| April | 12°C | 17°C | 21°C |
| May | 8°C | 14°C | 19°C |
| June | 5°C | 12°C | 16°C |
| July | 4°C | 11°C | 15°C |
| August | 5°C | 13°C | 17°C |
| September | 9°C | 16°C | 21°C |
| October | 12°C | 19°C | 23°C |
| November | 15°C | 21°C | 25°C |
| December | 16°C | 23°C | 27°C |
Bellinger River: Water Temperature by Location
Bellingen
Location & Local Information
Source Great Dividing Range
• location below Point Lookout, near Ebor
• elevation 1,150 m (3,770 ft)
Mouth Tasman Sea, South Pacific Ocean
• location east of Urunga
• elevation 0 m (0 ft)
Length 109 km (68 mi)
The Bellinger River winds through the lush Mid North Coast of New South Wales, flowing from the Great Dividing Range down toward the coast near Bellingen. Its water temperature is closely tied to the seasons and local rainfall. In summer, the river generally warms to around 22–26°C, making it comfortably mild without ever feeling bath-like. Spring and autumn usually sit in the 18–22°C range, which many locals still find pleasant for a dip on a warm day. During winter, temperatures commonly drop to about 12–16°C, cool but not extreme, especially in the deeper, slower-moving sections shaded by rainforest.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in the Bellinger River is generally allowed and widely enjoyed, particularly at well-known swimming holes and calm bends where the current is gentle. The river is fresh, clean, and largely free from tidal influence upstream, which helps keep water quality suitable for recreational use most of the year. That said, conditions can change quickly after heavy rain, when water levels rise, temperatures fall, and visibility drops. Outside of flood periods, the river offers a safe and refreshing option for swimming, especially in summer, when it provides welcome relief from the coastal heat without the crowds you often find at nearby beaches.