Drysdale River – current river water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current river water temperature at Drysdale River in Western Australia. 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 Drysdale River today is 27°C.
Water Temperature in Drysdale 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
Water temperatures in Drysdale 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 Drysdale River will be 29.6°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 | 28.5°C | 30.0°C | |
| Mar 13 | 28.3°C | 30.0°C | |
| Mar 14 | 28.3°C | 30.0°C | |
| Mar 15 | 28.3°C | 30.0°C | |
| Mar 16 | 27.9°C | 30.0°C | |
| Mar 17 | 27.5°C | 30.0°C | |
| Mar 18 | 27.5°C | 30.0°C | |
| Mar 19 | 27.0°C | 30.0°C | |
| Mar 20 | 27.0°C | 30.0°C | 27.0°C |
| Mar 21 | 30.0°C | 27.4°C | |
| Mar 22 | 30.0°C | 27.8°C | |
| Mar 23 | 30.0°C | 28.1°C | |
| Mar 24 | 30.0°C | 28.5°C | |
| Mar 25 | 30.0°C | 28.9°C | |
| Mar 26 | 30.0°C | 29.3°C | |
| Mar 27 | 30.0°C | 29.6°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 | 31°C | 33°C |
| February | 30°C | 31°C | 32°C |
| March | 27°C | 30°C | 32°C |
| April | 28°C | 29°C | 31°C |
| May | 24°C | 27°C | 28°C |
| June | 22°C | 23°C | 24°C |
| July | 22°C | 23°C | 23°C |
| August | 23°C | 24°C | 25°C |
| September | 24°C | 26°C | 28°C |
| October | 27°C | 29°C | 31°C |
| November | 29°C | 32°C | 33°C |
| December | 28°C | 32°C | 33°C |
Location & Local Information
Source:
• location Caroline Ranges
• elevation 329 metres (1,079 ft)
Mouth:
• location Napier Broome Bay
• elevation sea level
Length 432 kilometres (268 mi)
The Drysdale River flows through the remote Kimberley, carving its way through rugged sandstone country before reaching the coast. Water temperature here is strongly influenced by the tropical climate and the river’s seasonal nature. During the Wet Season, roughly December to March, water temperatures are usually warm, commonly around 26–32°C, with fresh rainfall sometimes cooling the river briefly before it warms again under the sun. In the Dry Season, from about May to September, conditions are more settled and water temperatures typically sit between 22–28°C. Even in the cooler months, the Drysdale rarely feels cold, particularly in deeper pools that hold water year-round and change temperature slowly.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in the Drysdale River is generally allowed, but it’s very much a case of knowing where you are. In the upper inland sections and during the Dry Season, people do swim in clear, permanent pools, and the warm water makes it comfortable for more than a quick dip. However, caution is essential. The lower reaches are crocodile habitat, and saltwater crocodiles can be present, especially after wet seasons when they move further upstream. Steep rocky banks, submerged logs and sudden depth changes also add risk. With good local knowledge and careful timing, swimming can be enjoyable, but respect for the environment is key.