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

13.2°C

Today

13.3°C

Yesterday

13.7°C

A Week Ago

The water temperature in Darling River today is 13°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 gradually cooling over the past month, with a further drop recorded during the last week.

According to our forecast, the water temperature in Darling River will be 12.8°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
Jun 13	13.7°C	12.7°C
Jun 14	13.7°C	12.7°C
Jun 15	13.7°C	12.7°C
Jun 16	13.7°C	12.7°C
Jun 17	13.6°C	12.7°C
Jun 18	13.4°C	12.7°C
Jun 19	13.3°C	12.7°C
Jun 20	13.3°C	12.7°C
Jun 21	13.2°C	12.7°C	13.2°C
Jun 22		12.7°C	13.1°C
Jun 23		12.7°C	13.1°C
Jun 24		12.7°C	13.0°C
Jun 25		12.7°C	13.0°C
Jun 26		12.7°C	12.9°C
Jun 27		12.7°C	12.8°C
Jun 28		12.7°C	12.8°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

Wilcannia

New South Wales

12.9°C

Menindee

New South Wales

12.6°C

Pooncarie

New South Wales

12.5°C

🔗 Bourke

New South Wales

14.0°C

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.

Nearby Rivers

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current water temperature in Darling River?

The water temperature in Darling River today is 13°C.

What is the water temperature in Darling River during the summer months?

In summer, water temperatures in Darling River typically range from 26°C to 30°C.

Is it possible to swim in Darling River (New South Wales)?

Yes — you can swim in parts of the Darling River in warmer months, but conditions vary a lot along its length and not every spot is suitable. Always check local council or NSW Health alerts for blue‑green algae, recent flooding and water quality, follow signage, use designated swimming areas where possible and be mindful of strong currents, submerged hazards and local wildlife.