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

11.5°C

Today

11.6°C

Yesterday

11.8°C

A Week Ago

The water temperature in Ginninderra Creek today is 12°C.

Water Temperature in Ginninderra Creek: 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 Ginninderra Creek 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 Ginninderra Creek will be 10.7°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	12.1°C	10.7°C
Apr 29	12.1°C	10.7°C
Apr 30	11.8°C	10.7°C
May 1	11.7°C	10.7°C
May 2	11.8°C	10.7°C
May 3	11.7°C	10.7°C
May 4	11.7°C	10.7°C
May 5	11.6°C	10.7°C
May 6	11.5°C	10.7°C	11.5°C
May 7		10.7°C	11.4°C
May 8		10.7°C	11.3°C
May 9		10.7°C	11.2°C
May 10		10.7°C	11.1°C
May 11		10.7°C	10.9°C
May 12		10.7°C	10.8°C
May 13		10.7°C	10.7°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.

Nearby Rivers

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current water temperature in Ginninderra Creek?

The water temperature in Ginninderra Creek today is 12°C.

What is the water temperature in Ginninderra Creek during the summer months?

In summer, water temperatures in Ginninderra Creek typically range from 19°C to 26°C.

Is it possible to swim in Ginninderra Creek (Australian Capital Territory)?

Yes — people do swim in parts of Ginninderra Creek in the warmer months, but many stretches are shallow, can be cold outside summer and may experience poor water quality or algal blooms. Before entering, check ACT Government water‑quality advisories and local signage, avoid swimming after heavy rain, and use caution as depth and flows can change quickly.