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 11°C.
Water Temperature in Molonglo River at Canberra: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ River water between 10 and 15°C is cold but manageable for short swims, especially on sunny days with warm air temperatures. The moving nature of a river can make the water feel colder than the actual reading, particularly in shaded or deeper sections. Casual swimming is usually brief, with wetsuits often preferred. Windy or cool weather can significantly reduce comfort, even when the air temperature is mild.
Water Temperature Over the Last 30 Days
Water temperatures in Canberra 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 Canberra will be 11.2°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 | 12.0°C | 11.3°C | |
| Apr 29 | 12.0°C | 11.3°C | |
| Apr 30 | 11.7°C | 11.3°C | |
| May 1 | 11.5°C | 11.3°C | |
| May 2 | 11.7°C | 11.3°C | |
| May 3 | 11.6°C | 11.3°C | |
| May 4 | 11.6°C | 11.3°C | |
| May 5 | 11.4°C | 11.3°C | |
| May 6 | 11.3°C | 11.3°C | 11.3°C |
| May 7 | 11.3°C | 11.3°C | |
| May 8 | 11.3°C | 11.3°C | |
| May 9 | 11.3°C | 11.3°C | |
| May 10 | 11.3°C | 11.3°C | |
| May 11 | 11.3°C | 11.2°C | |
| May 12 | 11.3°C | 11.2°C | |
| May 13 | 11.3°C | 11.2°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 | 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.