Cotter River – current river water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current river water temperature at Cotter River in Australian Capital Territory. 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 Cotter River today is 13°C.
Water Temperature in Cotter River: 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 Cotter River have been on a steady rise over the past month and have continued to climb over the last week.
According to our forecast, the water temperature in Cotter River will be 12.2°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oct 7 | 11.7°C | 11.8°C | |
| Oct 8 | 12.1°C | 11.8°C | |
| Oct 9 | 12.7°C | 11.8°C | |
| Oct 10 | 12.3°C | 11.8°C | |
| Oct 11 | 10.8°C | 11.8°C | |
| Oct 12 | 11.8°C | 11.8°C | |
| Oct 13 | 11.6°C | 11.8°C | |
| Oct 14 | 12.7°C | 11.8°C | |
| Oct 15 | 13.2°C | 11.8°C | 13.2°C |
| Oct 16 | 11.8°C | 13.1°C | |
| Oct 17 | 11.8°C | 12.9°C | |
| Oct 18 | 11.8°C | 12.8°C | |
| Oct 19 | 11.8°C | 12.7°C | |
| Oct 20 | 11.8°C | 12.5°C | |
| Oct 21 | 11.8°C | 12.4°C | |
| Oct 22 | 11.8°C | 12.2°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 | 16°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| February | 16°C | 18°C | 22°C |
| March | 13°C | 16°C | 19°C |
| April | 9°C | 13°C | 15°C |
| May | 5°C | 9°C | 13°C |
| June | 4°C | 7°C | 9°C |
| July | 4°C | 5°C | 8°C |
| August | 4°C | 6°C | 8°C |
| September | 7°C | 9°C | 11°C |
| October | 9°C | 12°C | 15°C |
| November | 12°C | 15°C | 18°C |
| December | 14°C | 17°C | 21°C |
Location & Local Information
Source Scabby Range, Brindabella Ranges
• location below Mount Scabby
• coordinates 35°44′25″S 148°50′21″E
• elevation 1,760 m (5,770 ft)
Mouth confluence with the Murrumbidgee River
• location Casuarina Sands
• coordinates 35°19′27″S 148°57′1″E
• elevation 466 m (1,529 ft)
Length 76 km (47 mi)
The Cotter River flows through bushland west of Canberra and is known for its clear, cool water, fed by mountain catchments and reservoirs. Water temperature here stays on the cooler side year-round compared to inland rivers. In summer, from December to February, the Cotter usually sits around 14–18°C, sometimes reaching close to 20°C in shallow, sun-exposed sections during heatwaves. Spring and autumn are cooler again, with water temperatures generally in the 10–15°C range. Winter is cold, often dropping to about 5–8°C, and can feel downright icy, especially early in the day or after cold nights. Releases from upstream dams can keep temperatures low even when the air warms up.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in the Cotter River is allowed, but it’s best described as refreshing rather than relaxing. In summer, some people enjoy a quick dip or short swim, especially on hot days when Canberra heats up, but the cool water means most don’t stay in for long. Calm pools and popular access spots are preferred, as currents can be stronger near release areas. Water quality is generally good, which makes swimming appealing, but sudden cold shock is a real consideration. Choosing settled weather, known spots and being prepared for cold water makes swimming in the Cotter enjoyable for those who don’t mind a brisk plunge.