Hawkesbury River – current river water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current river water temperature at Hawkesbury River in New South Wales. 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 Hawkesbury River today is 16°C.
Water Temperature in Hawkesbury 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 Hawkesbury 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 Hawkesbury River will be 15.8°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 | 17.4°C | 16.0°C | |
| Apr 29 | 17.2°C | 16.0°C | |
| Apr 30 | 17.1°C | 16.0°C | |
| May 1 | 16.7°C | 16.0°C | |
| May 2 | 16.7°C | 16.0°C | |
| May 3 | 16.6°C | 16.0°C | |
| May 4 | 16.5°C | 16.0°C | |
| May 5 | 16.4°C | 16.0°C | |
| May 6 | 16.1°C | 16.0°C | 16.1°C |
| May 7 | 16.0°C | 16.1°C | |
| May 8 | 16.0°C | 16.0°C | |
| May 9 | 16.0°C | 16.0°C | |
| May 10 | 16.0°C | 15.9°C | |
| May 11 | 16.0°C | 15.9°C | |
| May 12 | 16.0°C | 15.8°C | |
| May 13 | 16.0°C | 15.8°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 | 18°C | 24°C | 28°C |
| February | 17°C | 23°C | 27°C |
| March | 15°C | 23°C | 26°C |
| April | 2°C | 20°C | 25°C |
| May | 10°C | 16°C | 21°C |
| June | 10°C | 14°C | 16°C |
| July | 1°C | 12°C | 14°C |
| August | 12°C | 13°C | 15°C |
| September | 13°C | 16°C | 19°C |
| October | 15°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| November | 20°C | 22°C | 26°C |
| December | 18°C | 24°C | 28°C |
Hawkesbury River: Water Temperature by Location
Location & Local Information
Source Nepean River
• location north of Penrith
Mouth Broken Bay
• location west of Lion Island
• coordinates 33°33′53.9994″S 151°18′0″E
Length 120 km (75 mi)
The Hawkesbury River is a legendary waterway that wraps around the outskirts of Sydney, offering a massive playground for anyone keen on getting outdoors. When it comes to the water temperature, it’s a fair dinkum treat during the summer months, often sitting between 23°C and 26°C, though some of the shallower bays can get even toastier when the sun is beating down. In the winter, the river definitely finds its chill, with the mercury dropping to around 13°C or 16°C. While it might be a bit brisk for a leisurely soak then, it’s still a ripper spot for a bit of paddling if you’ve got a thick wetsuit or just a high tolerance for the cold.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming is absolutely allowed and is a classic weekend pastime for locals, with spots like Brooklyn Baths and the sandy banks near Wisemans Ferry being top picks. You’ve got to keep your wits about you, though, as the Hawkesbury is a huge tidal system with some seriously strong currents that can pull like a train in the main channels. It’s always a good idea to stick to the designated swimming areas or quiet bays and avoid jumping in for a few days after heavy rain when the water can get a bit murky from runoff. As long as you play it smart and keep an eye on the tides, a dip in the Hawkesbury is a gold-standard way to cool off.