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

19.6°C

Today

19.8°C

Yesterday

20.1°C

A Week Ago

The water temperature in Burdekin River today is 20°C.

Water Temperature in Burdekin 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 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 21.3°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
Jun 13	20.0°C	21.5°C
Jun 14	20.0°C	21.5°C
Jun 15	20.1°C	21.5°C
Jun 16	20.2°C	21.5°C
Jun 17	20.4°C	21.5°C
Jun 18	20.2°C	21.5°C
Jun 19	20.1°C	21.5°C
Jun 20	19.8°C	21.5°C
Jun 21	19.6°C	21.5°C	19.6°C
Jun 22		21.5°C	19.8°C
Jun 23		21.5°C	20.1°C
Jun 24		21.5°C	20.3°C
Jun 25		21.5°C	20.6°C
Jun 26		21.5°C	20.8°C
Jun 27		21.5°C	21.0°C
Jun 28		21.5°C	21.3°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	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

Queensland

19.9°C

🔗 Charters Towers

Queensland

19.4°C

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.

Nearby Rivers

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current water temperature in Burdekin River?

The water temperature in Burdekin River today is 20°C.

What is the water temperature in Burdekin River during the summer months?

In summer, water temperatures in Burdekin River typically range from 27°C to 31°C.

Is it possible to swim in Burdekin River (Queensland)?

Yes — many stretches of the Burdekin River are swimmable when conditions are safe, with water temperatures commonly in the mid-to-high 20s °C in summer (Dec–Feb) and cooling to the high teens–low 20s °C in winter (Jun–Aug). Always check local signage and Queensland Government or council advisories for water quality, strong currents after rain and saltwater crocodile warnings, and avoid swimming during floods or where lifeguards are not present.