Burdekin River – current river water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current river water temperature at Burdekin River in Queensland. 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 Burdekin River today is 22°C.
Water Temperature in Burdekin River: 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 Burdekin 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 Burdekin River will be 23.2°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 | 24.0°C | 23.3°C | |
| Apr 29 | 24.0°C | 23.3°C | |
| Apr 30 | 24.0°C | 23.3°C | |
| May 1 | 24.0°C | 23.3°C | |
| May 2 | 24.0°C | 23.3°C | |
| May 3 | 21.3°C | 23.3°C | |
| May 4 | 21.5°C | 23.3°C | |
| May 5 | 21.4°C | 23.3°C | |
| May 6 | 21.5°C | 23.3°C | 21.5°C |
| May 7 | 23.3°C | 21.7°C | |
| May 8 | 23.3°C | 22.0°C | |
| May 9 | 23.3°C | 22.2°C | |
| May 10 | 23.3°C | 22.5°C | |
| May 11 | 23.3°C | 22.7°C | |
| May 12 | 23.3°C | 22.9°C | |
| May 13 | 23.3°C | 23.2°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 | 28°C | 29°C | 31°C |
| February | 27°C | 29°C | 31°C |
| March | 27°C | 29°C | 31°C |
| April | 24°C | 27°C | 29°C |
| May | 21°C | 23°C | 27°C |
| June | 19°C | 22°C | 24°C |
| July | 17°C | 21°C | 25°C |
| August | 20°C | 23°C | 26°C |
| September | 22°C | 25°C | 29°C |
| October | 24°C | 28°C | 31°C |
| November | 27°C | 29°C | 31°C |
| December | 27°C | 30°C | 31°C |
Burdekin River: Water Temperature by Location
🔗 Home Hill
🔗 Charters Towers
Location & Local Information
Source Seaview Range
• location near Ingham
• coordinates 18°42′12″S 145°44′23″E
• elevation 620 m (2,030 ft)
Mouth Coral Sea
• location Upstart Bay
• coordinates 19°38′49″S 147°29′14″E
• elevation 0 m (0 ft)
Length 886 km (551 mi)
The Burdekin River is one of Queensland’s major tropical rivers, flowing from inland ranges to the Coral Sea, and its water temperature reflects the warm northern climate. In summer and through the Wet Season, roughly December to March, water temperatures are typically high, often around 26–30°C, and can feel even warmer in slow-moving sections and backwaters. During periods of heavy rain, fresh inflows may cool the river briefly, but the warmth returns quickly once conditions settle. In the drier months of autumn and spring, the river usually sits in the 22–27°C range. Winter is mild by most standards, with water temperatures generally around 20–24°C, especially in deeper stretches.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in the Burdekin River is generally allowed, but it’s very dependent on location and season. In the upper reaches and inland sections, people do swim in calmer pools during the Dry Season, when flows are lower and the water is clear. The warm water makes swimming comfortable for longer periods. However, the lower river is crocodile habitat, and saltwater crocodiles can be present, particularly after wet years. Strong currents during the Wet Season, sudden depth changes and submerged debris also add risk. Because of this, swimming is best limited to known inland spots with local advice, making caution a key part of any dip in the Burdekin.