Daly River – current river water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current river water temperature at Daly River in Northern 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 Daly River today is 30°C.
Water Temperature in Daly River: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
✅ River temperatures above 25°C feel warm and are well suited to leisurely swimming and floating. Comfort remains high even if air temperatures are slightly cooler, though hot weather can make the water feel less refreshing. In slower-flowing rivers, very warm water may feel stagnant, especially during heatwaves. Weather conditions such as strong sun or high humidity can further influence how pleasant the swim feels.
Water Temperature Over the Last 30 Days
Over the past month, water temperatures in Daly River have stayed mostly steady, also with conditions remaining relatively stable over the past week.
According to our forecast, the water temperature in Daly River will be 30.3°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 | 30.0°C | 30.3°C | |
| Mar 13 | 30.0°C | 30.3°C | |
| Mar 14 | 30.0°C | 30.3°C | |
| Mar 15 | 30.0°C | 30.3°C | |
| Mar 16 | 30.0°C | 30.3°C | |
| Mar 17 | 30.0°C | 30.3°C | |
| Mar 18 | 30.0°C | 30.3°C | |
| Mar 19 | 30.0°C | 30.3°C | |
| Mar 20 | 30.0°C | 30.3°C | 30.0°C |
| Mar 21 | 30.3°C | 30.0°C | |
| Mar 22 | 30.3°C | 30.1°C | |
| Mar 23 | 30.3°C | 30.1°C | |
| Mar 24 | 30.3°C | 30.2°C | |
| Mar 25 | 30.3°C | 30.2°C | |
| Mar 26 | 30.3°C | 30.2°C | |
| Mar 27 | 30.3°C | 30.3°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 | 30°C | 30°C | 31°C |
| February | 30°C | 30°C | 31°C |
| March | 30°C | 30°C | 31°C |
| April | 30°C | 30°C | 31°C |
| May | 30°C | 30°C | 31°C |
| June | 30°C | 30°C | 31°C |
| July | 30°C | 30°C | 31°C |
| August | 26°C | 29°C | 31°C |
| September | 30°C | 30°C | 31°C |
| October | 30°C | 30°C | 31°C |
| November | 30°C | 30°C | 31°C |
| December | 30°C | 30°C | 31°C |
Location & Local Information
Source:
• location Confluence of Flora and Katherine river
• coordinates 14°39′22.9536″S 131°42′18.0864″E
• elevation 64 m (210 ft)
Mouth Timor Sea
• coordinates 13°20′S 130°19′E
• elevation 0 m (0 ft)
Length 354 km (220 mi)
The Daly River flows south-west of Darwin through a strongly tropical landscape, and its water temperature stays warm for most of the year. During the Wet Season, roughly from December to March, water temperatures are typically around 26–30°C, sometimes dipping briefly when heavy rain and fresh runoff move through the system. In the Dry Season, from about May to September, conditions are more stable and the river usually sits between 24–28°C. Even in the cooler months, the Daly rarely feels cold, especially in deeper pools and slower bends where the water holds heat well. Seasonal flooding and flow levels have a bigger impact on conditions than temperature alone.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in the Daly River is generally allowed, but it’s not something to approach casually. This is crocodile country, and saltwater crocodiles are known to inhabit the river, particularly in the lower and middle reaches and after wet seasons. Because of this, swimming is usually limited to a few well-known spots, often upstream or in smaller tributaries, where local advice confirms it’s safe. Water quality is usually good in the Dry Season, and the warm temperature can be very inviting. However, strong currents, steep banks and submerged timber add extra risk. On the Daly, swimming is all about local knowledge, timing and caution rather than just water temperature.