Cowra – water temperature at Lachlan River
This page provides up-to-date information about the water temperature at Cowra, located on the Lachlan River in New South Wales. 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 Lachlan River at Cowra today is 13°C.
Water Temperature in Lachlan River at Cowra: 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 Cowra 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 Cowra will be 11.4°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 | 13.6°C | 12.0°C | |
| Apr 29 | 13.4°C | 12.0°C | |
| Apr 30 | 13.2°C | 12.0°C | |
| May 1 | 13.6°C | 12.0°C | |
| May 2 | 14.3°C | 12.0°C | |
| May 3 | 13.9°C | 12.0°C | |
| May 4 | 13.8°C | 12.0°C | |
| May 5 | 13.9°C | 12.0°C | |
| May 6 | 13.0°C | 12.0°C | 13.0°C |
| May 7 | 12.0°C | 12.8°C | |
| May 8 | 12.0°C | 12.6°C | |
| May 9 | 12.0°C | 12.3°C | |
| May 10 | 12.0°C | 12.1°C | |
| May 11 | 12.0°C | 11.9°C | |
| May 12 | 12.0°C | 11.7°C | |
| May 13 | 12.0°C | 11.4°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 | 26°C |
| February | 17°C | 22°C | 24°C |
| March | 17°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| April | 1°C | 15°C | 18°C |
| May | 4°C | 12°C | 14°C |
| June | 6°C | 9°C | 12°C |
| July | 7°C | 9°C | 11°C |
| August | 7°C | 10°C | 12°C |
| September | 11°C | 13°C | 15°C |
| October | 14°C | 16°C | 19°C |
| November | 15°C | 19°C | 23°C |
| December | 18°C | 22°C | 25°C |
Location & Local Information
Cowra sits on a well-known stretch of the Lachlan River, and the river’s temperature changes clearly with the inland seasons. In summer, usually from December through February, water temperatures around Cowra are often in the range of about 20–25°C, warming nicely in slower pools and near weirs during hot spells. Spring and autumn are more moderate, with the river generally sitting between 14–20°C, which can feel cool at first but is still comfortable on a warm day. Winter brings a definite chill, and water temperatures commonly drop to around 7–11°C, making it feel sharp and refreshing rather than relaxing.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in the Lachlan at Cowra is allowed and is fairly popular in the warmer months, especially when the town heats up. Locals tend to head for familiar river access points where the flow is calmer and entry is easier. In summer, the water temperature is usually suitable for proper swimming, not just a quick dip. Even so, the river still needs respect. Flow levels can change after rain or upstream releases, and there are submerged snags and sudden depth changes in places. Sticking to known spots and avoiding high or fast flows helps make swimming around Cowra both enjoyable and sensible.