Brisbane – water temperature at Brisbane River
This page provides up-to-date information about the water temperature at Brisbane, located on the Brisbane River in Queensland. 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 Brisbane River at Brisbane today is 23°C.
Water Temperature in Brisbane River at Brisbane: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
✅ River water between 20 and 25°C is ideal for swimming and offers very comfortable conditions for most people. Combined with warm air temperatures and settled weather, this range is perfect for extended swims and family-friendly activities. Rivers may still feel slightly cooler than lakes due to gentle currents, which many swimmers find refreshing. Even on partly cloudy days, swimming remains enjoyable.
Water Temperature Over the Last 30 Days
Water temperatures in Brisbane 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 Brisbane will be 24.4°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 | 24.3°C | 25.0°C | |
| Mar 13 | 24.0°C | 25.0°C | |
| Mar 14 | 24.0°C | 25.0°C | |
| Mar 15 | 23.5°C | 25.0°C | |
| Mar 16 | 23.4°C | 25.0°C | |
| Mar 17 | 23.8°C | 25.0°C | |
| Mar 18 | 23.8°C | 25.0°C | |
| Mar 19 | 23.7°C | 25.0°C | |
| Mar 20 | 23.3°C | 25.0°C | 23.3°C |
| Mar 21 | 25.0°C | 23.5°C | |
| Mar 22 | 25.0°C | 23.6°C | |
| Mar 23 | 25.0°C | 23.8°C | |
| Mar 24 | 25.0°C | 24.0°C | |
| Mar 25 | 25.0°C | 24.1°C | |
| Mar 26 | 25.0°C | 24.3°C | |
| Mar 27 | 25.0°C | 24.4°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 | 27°C | 30°C |
| February | 25°C | 26°C | 29°C |
| March | 22°C | 25°C | 29°C |
| April | 18°C | 22°C | 26°C |
| May | 14°C | 18°C | 23°C |
| June | 12°C | 15°C | 19°C |
| July | 11°C | 14°C | 18°C |
| August | 12°C | 16°C | 20°C |
| September | 15°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| October | 18°C | 22°C | 25°C |
| November | 21°C | 24°C | 27°C |
| December | 23°C | 26°C | 29°C |
Location & Local Information
Brisbane sits along the winding banks of the Brisbane River, and the river’s water temperature reflects the city’s warm, subtropical climate. In summer, from December to February, temperatures in the river are usually around 24–28°C, sometimes feeling warmer in slow-moving sections during long hot spells. Spring and autumn are a little milder, with the water generally sitting between 20–25°C. Winter brings the coolest conditions of the year, but even then the river rarely feels cold, typically ranging from about 16–20°C, especially in deeper reaches where temperature changes are gradual. Rainfall and tidal movement can cause short-term fluctuations in both temperature and clarity.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in the Brisbane River at Brisbane is technically allowed, but it’s generally not recommended. While the water temperature can be quite comfortable, especially in summer, there are several safety concerns. Strong currents, tidal flow, poor visibility and regular boat traffic make swimming risky. Water quality can also vary after rain, and the river is known habitat for bull sharks, which adds another reason for caution. Because of this, locals tend to avoid swimming in the river itself and instead use nearby beaches, lagoons and public pools designed for safe swimming. In Brisbane, the river is best enjoyed from the bank or on the water, rather than in it.