Goyder River – current river water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current river water temperature at Goyder River in Northern 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

26.7°C

Today

26.7°C

Yesterday

27.0°C

A Week Ago

The water temperature in Goyder River today is 27°C.

Water Temperature in Goyder River: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast

✅ River temperatures above 25°C feel warm and are well suited to leisurely swimming and floating. Comfort remains high even if air temperatures are slightly cooler, though hot weather can make the water feel less refreshing. In slower-flowing rivers, very warm water may feel stagnant, especially during heatwaves. Weather conditions such as strong sun or high humidity can further influence how pleasant the swim feels.

Water Temperature Over the Last 30 Days

Water temperatures in Goyder 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 Goyder River will be 26.9°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	27.1°C	26.9°C
Apr 29	27.0°C	26.9°C
Apr 30	27.0°C	26.9°C
May 1	27.0°C	26.9°C
May 2	27.0°C	26.9°C
May 3	26.8°C	26.9°C
May 4	26.8°C	26.9°C
May 5	26.7°C	26.9°C
May 6	26.7°C	26.9°C	26.7°C
May 7		26.9°C	26.7°C
May 8		26.9°C	26.8°C
May 9		26.9°C	26.8°C
May 10		26.9°C	26.8°C
May 11		26.9°C	26.8°C
May 12		26.9°C	26.9°C
May 13		26.9°C	26.9°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	27°C	31°C	33°C
February	27°C	31°C	33°C
March	27°C	30°C	32°C
April	27°C	29°C	31°C
May	24°C	27°C	30°C
June	22°C	24°C	27°C
July	20°C	23°C	24°C
August	17°C	23°C	27°C
September	17°C	25°C	30°C
October	28°C	31°C	33°C
November	28°C	32°C	33°C
December	25°C	30°C	33°C

Location & Local Information

Source Mitchell Ranges
• location Arnhem Land, Australia
• elevation 63 m (207 ft)
Mouth Glyde river
• location Arnhem Land, Australia
• coordinates 12°28′58″S 134°57′58″E
• elevation 1 m (3 ft 3 in)
Length 171 km (106 mi)

The Goyder River flows through remote country in north-east Arnhem Land, draining into the Arafura Sea, and its water temperature is shaped by a hot tropical climate. During the Wet Season, roughly from December to March, the river runs high with monsoonal rain and water temperatures are usually warm, commonly around 26–31°C. Heavy rainfall can cool the water briefly, but once flows ease it warms again quickly. In the Dry Season, from about May to September, the river breaks into broad channels and permanent waterholes, with temperatures generally sitting between 23–28°C. Even in the cooler months, the Goyder rarely feels cold, especially in deeper pools that retain heat overnight.

Swimming Conditions

Swimming in the Goyder River is technically allowed, but it requires serious caution. While the warm water can look inviting, particularly in the Dry Season, this is crocodile country. Saltwater crocodiles are known to inhabit the river system, especially in lower and middle reaches, and they can move long distances upstream. Strong currents during the Wet Season, submerged logs and steep banks also add risk. For these reasons, swimming is generally avoided unless local knowledge confirms a specific inland waterhole is considered safe at the time. In practice, the Goyder is better respected as a wild tropical river rather than used as a regular swimming spot.

Nearby Rivers

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current water temperature in Goyder River?

The water temperature in Goyder River today is 27°C.

What is the water temperature in Goyder River during the summer months?

In summer, water temperatures in Goyder River typically range from 25°C to 33°C.

Is it possible to swim in Goyder River (Northern Territory)?

Swimming can be possible in parts of the Goyder River — the water is generally warm and can be pleasant in the dry season, but conditions vary with tides, recent rainfall and the specific pools or reaches you choose. However, the Northern Territory is prime saltwater crocodile country and the river can have strong currents and sudden rises in the wet season, so only swim in designated croc‑safe areas and always follow local signage and ranger advice.