Darling River – current river water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current river water temperature at Darling River in New South Wales. 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 Darling River today is 14°C.
Water Temperature in Darling 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 Darling 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 Darling River will be 14.1°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aug 14 | 13.9°C | 14.0°C | |
| Aug 15 | 14.0°C | 14.0°C | |
| Aug 16 | 13.5°C | 14.0°C | |
| Aug 17 | 13.6°C | 14.0°C | |
| Aug 18 | 13.6°C | 14.0°C | |
| Aug 19 | 13.6°C | 14.0°C | |
| Aug 20 | 14.2°C | 14.0°C | |
| Aug 21 | 14.3°C | 14.0°C | |
| Aug 22 | 14.4°C | 14.0°C | 14.4°C |
| Aug 23 | 14.0°C | 14.4°C | |
| Aug 24 | 14.0°C | 14.3°C | |
| Aug 25 | 14.0°C | 14.3°C | |
| Aug 26 | 14.0°C | 14.2°C | |
| Aug 27 | 14.0°C | 14.2°C | |
| Aug 28 | 14.0°C | 14.1°C | |
| Aug 29 | 14.0°C | 14.1°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 | 28°C | 29°C | 30°C |
| February | 26°C | 28°C | 29°C |
| March | 23°C | 26°C | 28°C |
| April | 18°C | 21°C | 24°C |
| May | 14°C | 16°C | 19°C |
| June | 11°C | 13°C | 14°C |
| July | 11°C | 12°C | 13°C |
| August | 12°C | 14°C | 16°C |
| September | 16°C | 18°C | 20°C |
| October | 19°C | 21°C | 23°C |
| November | 22°C | 25°C | 27°C |
| December | 26°C | 27°C | 29°C |
Darling River: Water Temperature by Location
Location & Local Information
Source confluence of Barwon and Culgoa Rivers
• location near Brewarrina, NSW
• coordinates 29°57′31″S 146°18′28″E
• elevation 119 m (390 ft)
Mouth confluence with Murray River
• location Wentworth, NSW
• coordinates 34°6′47″S 141°54′43″E
• elevation 35 m (115 ft)
Length 1,472 km (915 mi)
The Darling River is one of Australia’s longest inland rivers, flowing through a hot, dry part of New South Wales where climate has a big say in water conditions. Water temperature varies strongly across the year and along the river’s length. In summer, from December to February, the Darling often sits around 24–30°C, and in slow-moving reaches or billabongs it can feel very warm during extended heatwaves. Spring and autumn bring more moderate conditions, with water temperatures commonly in the 18–24°C range. Winter is noticeably cooler, usually around 10–14°C, though shallow sections can warm slightly on sunny days.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in the Darling River is generally allowed, but it’s more of a mixed bag compared to coastal or alpine rivers. In summer, the warm water can be inviting, especially in quiet backwaters or near towns where locals know safe entry points. However, conditions can change a lot. Low flows, high temperatures and occasional blue-green algae outbreaks mean swimming isn’t always recommended. Water quality can vary depending on rainfall, upstream releases and seasonal conditions. There are also submerged trees, soft banks and slow but deceptive currents to consider. With local advice and by avoiding times when water quality warnings are in place, swimming can be enjoyable, but caution and common sense are essential on the Darling.