Forbes – water temperature at Lachlan River
This page provides up-to-date information about the water temperature at Forbes, located on the Lachlan River in New South Wales. Here you can check current conditions, view recent temperature trends, explore typical monthly ranges, and compare today’s reading with historical averages for this date. The page also includes a 7-day water temperature forecast, local weather information, and swimming conditions.
Current Water Temperature
The water temperature in Lachlan River at Forbes today is 20°C.
Water Temperature in Lachlan River at Forbes: 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
Over the past 30 days, water temperatures in Forbes have generally increased, although a slight cooling trend has set in over the last week.
According to our forecast, the water temperature in Forbes will be 17.2°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oct 7 | 19.6°C | 17.3°C | |
| Oct 8 | 19.9°C | 17.3°C | |
| Oct 9 | 20.2°C | 17.3°C | |
| Oct 10 | 18.5°C | 17.3°C | |
| Oct 11 | 17.3°C | 17.3°C | |
| Oct 12 | 18.7°C | 17.3°C | |
| Oct 13 | 18.7°C | 17.3°C | |
| Oct 14 | 20.1°C | 17.3°C | |
| Oct 15 | 19.6°C | 17.3°C | 19.6°C |
| Oct 16 | 17.3°C | 19.3°C | |
| Oct 17 | 17.3°C | 18.9°C | |
| Oct 18 | 17.3°C | 18.6°C | |
| Oct 19 | 17.3°C | 18.2°C | |
| Oct 20 | 17.3°C | 17.9°C | |
| Oct 21 | 17.3°C | 17.5°C | |
| Oct 22 | 17.3°C | 17.2°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 | 16°C | 24°C | 33°C |
| February | 6°C | 23°C | 26°C |
| March | 1°C | 21°C | 24°C |
| April | 14°C | 17°C | 20°C |
| May | 10°C | 13°C | 15°C |
| June | 9°C | 11°C | 12°C |
| July | 8°C | 10°C | 11°C |
| August | 9°C | 11°C | 12°C |
| September | 12°C | 14°C | 16°C |
| October | 15°C | 17°C | 20°C |
| November | 18°C | 21°C | 23°C |
| December | 8°C | 23°C | 25°C |
Location & Local Information
Forbes lies on a broad, slow-moving section of the Lachlan River, where the water has plenty of time to warm up under the inland sun. Seasonal changes are quite clear. In summer, from December to February, water temperatures around Forbes commonly sit between about 22–27°C, and during prolonged hot weather they can feel warmer in sheltered bends. Spring and autumn are milder, with the river usually in the 16–22°C range, comfortable on a warm day but cool in the mornings. Winter brings cooler conditions, and water temperatures often drop to around 8–12°C, which feels brisk and is better suited to a quick dip.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in the Lachlan River at Forbes is allowed and fairly popular, especially through summer when air temperatures regularly climb into the 30s. The town has well-known river areas where the banks are gentle and the current is slower, making them suitable for swimming. In the warmer months, the water temperature is generally pleasant enough for longer swims and floating. However, conditions can vary. After heavy rain or during hot, low-flow periods, water quality can change, and there may be algae warnings. Submerged snags and soft banks are also common. Choosing familiar spots and paying attention to conditions makes swimming around Forbes both enjoyable and sensible.