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 18°C.
Water Temperature in Lachlan River at Cowra: 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 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 18.9°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mar 12 | 20.4°C | 19.0°C | |
| Mar 13 | 20.4°C | 19.0°C | |
| Mar 14 | 19.3°C | 19.0°C | |
| Mar 15 | 19.1°C | 19.0°C | |
| Mar 16 | 19.9°C | 19.0°C | |
| Mar 17 | 19.9°C | 19.0°C | |
| Mar 18 | 19.0°C | 19.0°C | |
| Mar 19 | 19.1°C | 19.0°C | |
| Mar 20 | 18.2°C | 19.0°C | 18.2°C |
| Mar 21 | 19.0°C | 18.3°C | |
| Mar 22 | 19.0°C | 18.4°C | |
| Mar 23 | 19.0°C | 18.5°C | |
| Mar 24 | 19.0°C | 18.6°C | |
| Mar 25 | 19.0°C | 18.7°C | |
| Mar 26 | 19.0°C | 18.8°C | |
| Mar 27 | 19.0°C | 18.9°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.