Gudgenby River – current river water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current river water temperature at Gudgenby River 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 Gudgenby River today is 10°C.
Water Temperature in Gudgenby River: 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 Gudgenby 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 Gudgenby River will be 10.5°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 | 10.7°C | 10.5°C | |
| Apr 29 | 10.6°C | 10.5°C | |
| Apr 30 | 10.4°C | 10.5°C | |
| May 1 | 10.6°C | 10.5°C | |
| May 2 | 10.6°C | 10.5°C | |
| May 3 | 10.5°C | 10.5°C | |
| May 4 | 10.3°C | 10.5°C | |
| May 5 | 10.2°C | 10.5°C | |
| May 6 | 10.3°C | 10.5°C | 10.3°C |
| May 7 | 10.5°C | 10.3°C | |
| May 8 | 10.5°C | 10.4°C | |
| May 9 | 10.5°C | 10.4°C | |
| May 10 | 10.5°C | 10.4°C | |
| May 11 | 10.5°C | 10.4°C | |
| May 12 | 10.5°C | 10.5°C | |
| May 13 | 10.5°C | 10.5°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 | 20°C | 24°C | 28°C |
| February | 18°C | 23°C | 25°C |
| March | 18°C | 20°C | 23°C |
| April | 10°C | 16°C | 19°C |
| May | 8°C | 11°C | 13°C |
| June | 6°C | 7°C | 10°C |
| July | 5°C | 7°C | 8°C |
| August | 5°C | 8°C | 10°C |
| September | 9°C | 12°C | 14°C |
| October | 13°C | 16°C | 19°C |
| November | 15°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| December | 19°C | 22°C | 26°C |
Location & Local Information
Source Mount Gudgenby and Yankee Hat, Brindabella Range
• location Namadgi National Park
• elevation 995 m (3,264 ft)
Mouth confluence with the Murrumbidgee River
• location near Tharwa
• elevation 573 m (1,880 ft)
Length 35 km (22 mi)
The Gudgenby River flows through remote alpine bushland in the far south of the ACT, and its water temperature reflects its mountain origins. This is a cold river for most of the year. In summer, from December to February, water temperatures usually sit around 10–15°C, occasionally edging a little higher in shallow pools during hot weather. Spring and autumn are cooler again, commonly in the 7–12°C range. Winter water temperatures often drop to around 3–6°C, and in shaded sections the water can feel close to icy. Snowmelt and cold groundwater keep the Gudgenby consistently cool, even when air temperatures rise.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in the Gudgenby River is allowed, but it’s very much for the hardy rather than the casual swimmer. In summer, some people enjoy a quick plunge or a brief swim on hot days, mainly to cool off after hiking or camping nearby. The water is generally clear and clean, which makes it appealing despite the cold. However, the low temperatures mean cold shock is a real risk, and most swims are short. Currents can also be deceptively strong after rain, and access can be rocky and uneven. For most visitors, the Gudgenby is best suited to short, refreshing dips rather than relaxed swimming.