Canberra – water temperature at Molonglo River
This page provides up-to-date information about the water temperature at Canberra, located on the Molonglo River in Australian Capital Territory. 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 Molonglo River at Canberra today is 8°C.
Water Temperature in Molonglo River at Canberra: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
❌ River water below 10°C is very cold and generally unsuitable for swimming for most people. Even on a warm day, rivers at this temperature can quickly cause cold shock and numbness due to flowing water and shaded banks. Swimming is usually limited to brief cold dips or experienced cold-water swimmers. Overcast weather or cool air temperatures make river swimming especially uncomfortable and potentially unsafe.
Water Temperature Over the Last 30 Days
While water temperatures in Canberra declined overall during the past month, they have shown a noticeable rebound over the last week.
According to our forecast, the water temperature in Canberra will be 9.1°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 | 7.8°C | 9.0°C | |
| Jun 14 | 7.7°C | 9.0°C | |
| Jun 15 | 7.8°C | 9.0°C | |
| Jun 16 | 7.6°C | 9.0°C | |
| Jun 17 | 7.8°C | 9.0°C | |
| Jun 18 | 7.9°C | 9.0°C | |
| Jun 19 | 8.0°C | 9.0°C | |
| Jun 20 | 7.9°C | 9.0°C | |
| Jun 21 | 8.0°C | 9.0°C | 8.0°C |
| Jun 22 | 9.0°C | 8.2°C | |
| Jun 23 | 9.0°C | 8.3°C | |
| Jun 24 | 9.0°C | 8.5°C | |
| Jun 25 | 9.0°C | 8.6°C | |
| Jun 26 | 9.0°C | 8.8°C | |
| Jun 27 | 9.0°C | 8.9°C | |
| Jun 28 | 9.0°C | 9.1°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 | 18°C | 23°C | 29°C |
| February | 18°C | 22°C | 27°C |
| March | 16°C | 20°C | 23°C |
| April | 10°C | 15°C | 19°C |
| May | 7°C | 11°C | 14°C |
| June | 7°C | 9°C | 13°C |
| July | 6°C | 8°C | 10°C |
| August | 6°C | 9°C | 11°C |
| September | 9°C | 13°C | 16°C |
| October | 11°C | 16°C | 21°C |
| November | 15°C | 20°C | 24°C |
| December | 15°C | 21°C | 27°C |
Location & Local Information
Canberra sits along the Molonglo River, a cool-climate waterway that reflects the city’s inland setting and elevation. Water temperatures in the Molonglo vary widely through the year. In summer, the river generally reaches about 18–22°C, which can feel refreshing rather than warm, even during heatwaves. Spring and autumn are cooler again, usually ranging between 14–18°C, while winter sees temperatures drop to roughly 8–12°C, making the water distinctly cold for most people. Shaded banks and steady flow help keep the river cooler than nearby lakes and dams.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in the Molonglo River around Canberra is generally allowed, but it is not especially common. The cooler water temperatures limit comfort outside peak summer, and water quality can vary depending on recent rainfall and upstream conditions. After heavy rain, the river can become murky and colder, so swimming is best avoided then. In dry summer periods, some locals do swim in calmer sections, particularly where access is easy and currents are mild. Overall, the Molonglo River offers occasional swimming opportunities during warm weather, but it is better suited to short, refreshing dips rather than extended swims, especially when compared with the warmer rivers found in coastal or tropical parts of Australia.