Dubbo – water temperature and nearby swimming conditions
This page covers water temperature conditions in and around Dubbo in New South Wales. You can check current water temperatures, review recent trends, explore typical monthly ranges, and compare today’s values with historical averages for this date. The page also includes a 7-day water temperature forecast, nearby swimming locations, and local weather conditions.
Current Water Temperature
The water temperature in Dubbo today is 13°C.
Water Temperature in Dubbo: 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 Dubbo 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 Dubbo will be 12.6°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aug 15 | 12.9°C | 12.5°C | |
| Aug 16 | 12.7°C | 12.5°C | |
| Aug 17 | 12.4°C | 12.5°C | |
| Aug 18 | 12.6°C | 12.5°C | |
| Aug 19 | 12.8°C | 12.5°C | |
| Aug 20 | 12.7°C | 12.5°C | |
| Aug 21 | 12.9°C | 12.5°C | |
| Aug 22 | 13.0°C | 12.5°C | |
| Aug 23 | 13.3°C | 12.5°C | 13.3°C |
| Aug 24 | 12.5°C | 13.2°C | |
| Aug 25 | 12.5°C | 13.1°C | |
| Aug 26 | 12.5°C | 13.0°C | |
| Aug 27 | 12.5°C | 12.9°C | |
| Aug 28 | 12.5°C | 12.8°C | |
| Aug 29 | 12.5°C | 12.7°C | |
| Aug 30 | 12.5°C | 12.6°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 | 22°C | 26°C | 30°C |
| February | 22°C | 25°C | 31°C |
| March | 20°C | 23°C | 25°C |
| April | 15°C | 19°C | 23°C |
| May | 11°C | 15°C | 18°C |
| June | 9°C | 12°C | 15°C |
| July | 10°C | 11°C | 12°C |
| August | 10°C | 13°C | 15°C |
| September | 13°C | 16°C | 20°C |
| October | 17°C | 19°C | 24°C |
| November | 20°C | 23°C | 28°C |
| December | 21°C | 25°C | 28°C |
Location & Local Information
Dubbo sits on the Macquarie River in central western NSW, and its inland location gives local lakes and rivers a wide seasonal temperature range. In summer, water temperatures in the Macquarie River and nearby managed lakes commonly reach around 22–26°C, which feels comfortably warm and suits swimming during hot inland days. Spring and autumn are more moderate, usually sitting between 17–22°C, still pleasant when the weather is settled. Winter brings a clear drop, with water temperatures often around 10–14°C, making the water feel cold and less inviting for anything more than a quick dip.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming around Dubbo is generally allowed in designated lakes and suitable river sections, particularly in summer when water temperatures are at their highest and conditions are more stable. Managed recreational areas are the most popular, as water quality and access are better controlled. Natural river stretches can vary, especially after heavy rain, when runoff can cool the water, increase flow, and reduce clarity. During dry periods, calmer pools along the river may be used by locals, but caution is common. Overall, Dubbo offers seasonal inland swimming opportunities, best enjoyed in the warmer months, with lakes providing the most reliable and comfortable conditions away from the coast.