Ginninderra Creek – current river water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current river water temperature at Ginninderra Creek in Australian Capital Territory. 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 Ginninderra Creek today is 19°C.
Water Temperature in Ginninderra Creek: 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
While water temperatures in Ginninderra Creek declined overall during the past month, they have shown a noticeable rebound over the last week.
According to our forecast, the water temperature in Ginninderra Creek will be 19.6°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 | 19.6°C | 19.7°C | |
| Mar 13 | 19.5°C | 19.7°C | |
| Mar 14 | 17.5°C | 19.7°C | |
| Mar 15 | 17.2°C | 19.7°C | |
| Mar 16 | 19.0°C | 19.7°C | |
| Mar 17 | 19.0°C | 19.7°C | |
| Mar 18 | 18.7°C | 19.7°C | |
| Mar 19 | 18.5°C | 19.7°C | |
| Mar 20 | 18.7°C | 19.7°C | 18.7°C |
| Mar 21 | 19.7°C | 18.8°C | |
| Mar 22 | 19.7°C | 19.0°C | |
| Mar 23 | 19.7°C | 19.1°C | |
| Mar 24 | 19.7°C | 19.2°C | |
| Mar 25 | 19.7°C | 19.3°C | |
| Mar 26 | 19.7°C | 19.5°C | |
| Mar 27 | 19.7°C | 19.6°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 | 21°C | 24°C | 26°C |
| February | 19°C | 22°C | 25°C |
| March | 14°C | 20°C | 24°C |
| April | 11°C | 15°C | 19°C |
| May | 7°C | 11°C | 14°C |
| June | 8°C | 9°C | 11°C |
| July | 7°C | 8°C | 9°C |
| August | 8°C | 10°C | 12°C |
| September | 11°C | 14°C | 16°C |
| October | 13°C | 17°C | 21°C |
| November | 15°C | 21°C | 23°C |
| December | 19°C | 23°C | 25°C |
Location & Local Information
Source Spring Range
• location north-east of Hall, ACT
• elevation 599 m (1,965 ft)
Mouth confluence with Murrumbidgee River
• location Ginninderra Gorge, Yass Valley, NSW
• elevation 430 m (1,410 ft)
Length 23 km (14 mi)
The Ginninderra Creek runs through Canberra’s northern suburbs and feels very different to the larger rivers nearby. As a relatively small urban creek, its water temperature responds quickly to the seasons and local weather. In summer, from December to February, temperatures can range from about 18–24°C in deeper pools, sometimes warming further on hot afternoons. Spring and autumn are milder, with the creek usually sitting around 12–18°C. Winter brings a sharp drop, and water temperatures often fall to roughly 6–10°C, especially after cold nights or frosty mornings. Because flows are low and variable, temperature can change noticeably from one stretch to another.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in Ginninderra Creek is generally allowed, but it’s not commonly recommended. While there are a few deeper pools that might look inviting in summer, the creek is primarily an urban waterway. Water quality can vary depending on rainfall, runoff and seasonal conditions, and algae or high nutrient levels can be an issue at times. In addition, shallow sections, muddy banks and submerged debris make it less suitable for casual swimming. Most locals prefer nearby lakes or larger rivers for a proper swim. Ginninderra Creek is better enjoyed for walking, wildlife spotting and cooling off briefly on a hot day rather than regular swimming.