Finke River – current river water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current river water temperature at Finke River in 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 Finke River today is 17°C.
Water Temperature in Finke River: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ A river temperature of 15 to 20°C is generally considered cool to comfortable for swimming in Australia. On warm, calm days, this range allows for relaxed swimming and longer time in the water. Comfort depends heavily on air temperature and sunshine, as cooler weather can still make the water feel chilly. This range is popular for river swimming during spring and early autumn.
Water Temperature Over the Last 30 Days
Water temperatures in Finke 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 Finke River will be 15.9°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apr 28 | 21.1°C | 18.0°C | |
| Apr 29 | 20.8°C | 18.0°C | |
| Apr 30 | 20.2°C | 18.0°C | |
| May 1 | 20.2°C | 18.0°C | |
| May 2 | 20.0°C | 18.0°C | |
| May 3 | 20.7°C | 18.0°C | |
| May 4 | 19.7°C | 18.0°C | |
| May 5 | 19.7°C | 18.0°C | |
| May 6 | 17.1°C | 18.0°C | 17.1°C |
| May 7 | 18.0°C | 16.9°C | |
| May 8 | 18.0°C | 16.8°C | |
| May 9 | 18.0°C | 16.6°C | |
| May 10 | 18.0°C | 16.4°C | |
| May 11 | 18.0°C | 16.2°C | |
| May 12 | 18.0°C | 16.1°C | |
| May 13 | 18.0°C | 15.9°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 | 25°C | 28°C | 30°C |
| February | 26°C | 28°C | 30°C |
| March | 24°C | 26°C | 28°C |
| April | 20°C | 23°C | 25°C |
| May | 16°C | 18°C | 21°C |
| June | 13°C | 15°C | 18°C |
| July | 13°C | 15°C | 17°C |
| August | 14°C | 17°C | 19°C |
| September | 17°C | 20°C | 22°C |
| October | 19°C | 23°C | 26°C |
| November | 24°C | 26°C | 28°C |
| December | 25°C | 27°C | 29°C |
Location & Local Information
Length 750 km (470 mi)
The Finke River runs through the heart of Central Australia and is often described as one of the world’s oldest river systems. Most of the time it’s a sandy riverbed rather than a flowing river, but after rain it forms a chain of waterholes that can last for months. Water temperature in these pools closely follows the desert climate. In summer, from December to February, temperatures are typically warm, often around 26–32°C, and shallow sections can feel even hotter during prolonged heat. Autumn and spring are more comfortable, with water temperatures usually in the 20–26°C range. Winter brings cooler conditions, but even then the water often sits around 14–18°C, especially in deeper, sheltered waterholes.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in the Finke River is generally allowed when water is present, and it’s often enjoyed in permanent or semi-permanent waterholes after good rain. In summer, the warm water can be very inviting, particularly after a hot day in the outback. However, swimming here depends entirely on conditions. Water quality can decline as pools stagnate, and there may be algae, insects or debris to contend with. Access can also be tricky, with soft sand, steep banks and submerged rocks. With local advice and by choosing fresh, well-known waterholes, swimming can be refreshing, but it’s very much an occasional outback experience rather than a guaranteed option.