Gilbert River – current river water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current river water temperature at Gilbert River in Queensland. 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 Gilbert River today is 19°C.
Water Temperature in Gilbert 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 Gilbert 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 Gilbert River will be 21.0°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 | 19.5°C | 21.3°C | |
| Jun 14 | 19.5°C | 21.3°C | |
| Jun 15 | 19.6°C | 21.3°C | |
| Jun 16 | 19.7°C | 21.3°C | |
| Jun 17 | 19.8°C | 21.3°C | |
| Jun 18 | 19.6°C | 21.3°C | |
| Jun 19 | 19.6°C | 21.3°C | |
| Jun 20 | 19.3°C | 21.3°C | |
| Jun 21 | 19.2°C | 21.3°C | 19.2°C |
| Jun 22 | 21.3°C | 19.5°C | |
| Jun 23 | 21.3°C | 19.7°C | |
| Jun 24 | 21.3°C | 20.0°C | |
| Jun 25 | 21.3°C | 20.3°C | |
| Jun 26 | 21.3°C | 20.5°C | |
| Jun 27 | 21.3°C | 20.8°C | |
| Jun 28 | 21.3°C | 21.0°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 | 27°C | 29°C | 30°C |
| March | 26°C | 28°C | 30°C |
| April | 24°C | 26°C | 29°C |
| May | 20°C | 24°C | 26°C |
| June | 19°C | 21°C | 23°C |
| July | 18°C | 21°C | 23°C |
| August | 19°C | 22°C | 24°C |
| September | 22°C | 24°C | 28°C |
| October | 24°C | 28°C | 32°C |
| November | 26°C | 29°C | 32°C |
| December | 28°C | 29°C | 31°C |
Location & Local Information
Source Gregory and Newcastle Ranges, Atherton Tableland
• location below Conical Hill
• elevation 634 m (2,080 ft)
Mouth Gulf of Carpentaria
• location north of Karumba
• coordinates 16°32′23″S 141°16′22″E
• elevation 0 m (0 ft)
Length 887 km (551 mi)
The Gilbert River flows through remote Gulf Country in far north-west Queensland, and its water temperature is closely tied to the tropical climate and seasonal rains. In summer and the Wet Season, roughly December to March, water in the Gilbert is typically warm, often around 26–32°C, especially in broad, slow-moving reaches and waterholes. During this period, fresh inflows can briefly cool the river, but it warms up quickly once the rain eases. In the drier months of autumn and spring, temperatures usually sit in the 22–28°C range. Winter is milder rather than cold, with water temperatures commonly around 18–22°C, particularly in deeper permanent pools that hold water year-round.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in the Gilbert River is generally allowed, but it’s very much a case of knowing local conditions. In the Dry Season, when flows are low and stable, people often swim in permanent waterholes, and the water temperature is usually comfortable. However, caution is essential. The river is in crocodile country, and saltwater crocodiles can be present, especially after wet years. Water quality can also vary late in the dry season, and banks may be steep or muddy. Because of these risks, swimming is best done only with local knowledge and advice, making the Gilbert more of a situational swim rather than a casual one.