Hay – water temperature at Murrumbidgee River
This page provides up-to-date information about the water temperature at Hay, located on the Murrumbidgee River in New South Wales. Here you can check current conditions, view recent temperature trends, explore typical monthly ranges, and compare today’s reading with historical averages for this date. The page also includes a 7-day water temperature forecast, local weather information, and swimming conditions.
Current Water Temperature
The water temperature in Murrumbidgee River at Hay today is 12°C.
Water Temperature in Murrumbidgee River at Hay: 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 Hay 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 Hay will be 11.7°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jun 13 | 11.9°C | 12.0°C | |
| Jun 14 | 11.8°C | 12.0°C | |
| Jun 15 | 11.9°C | 12.0°C | |
| Jun 16 | 11.8°C | 12.0°C | |
| Jun 17 | 11.8°C | 12.0°C | |
| Jun 18 | 11.5°C | 12.0°C | |
| Jun 19 | 11.4°C | 12.0°C | |
| Jun 20 | 12.1°C | 12.0°C | |
| Jun 21 | 11.7°C | 12.0°C | 11.7°C |
| Jun 22 | 12.0°C | 11.7°C | |
| Jun 23 | 12.0°C | 11.7°C | |
| Jun 24 | 12.0°C | 11.7°C | |
| Jun 25 | 12.0°C | 11.7°C | |
| Jun 26 | 12.0°C | 11.7°C | |
| Jun 27 | 12.0°C | 11.7°C | |
| Jun 28 | 12.0°C | 11.7°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 | 19°C | 25°C | 31°C |
| February | 19°C | 24°C | 28°C |
| March | 16°C | 22°C | 26°C |
| April | 11°C | 17°C | 21°C |
| May | 9°C | 14°C | 19°C |
| June | 7°C | 12°C | 18°C |
| July | 7°C | 12°C | 18°C |
| August | 10°C | 14°C | 18°C |
| September | 10°C | 16°C | 20°C |
| October | 16°C | 18°C | 21°C |
| November | 18°C | 21°C | 26°C |
| December | 19°C | 23°C | 28°C |
Location & Local Information
Hay sits on the wide, slow-moving stretch of the Murrumbidgee River in far south-western New South Wales, where the river really feels like part of the landscape. Water temperatures here reflect the hot inland climate. In summer, typically from December through February, the river around Hay is often a comfortable 22–27°C, and during prolonged heatwaves it can feel warmer in sheltered bends. Spring and autumn are more moderate, with water temperatures usually around 16–21°C. Winter brings a sharp drop, with the Murrumbidgee commonly sitting at about 8–12°C, which is brisk and best suited to a quick dip rather than a long swim.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in the river at Hay is allowed and fairly common, especially in summer when daytime temperatures regularly climb well above 30°C. Locals tend to use familiar access points where the banks are gentle and the flow is relatively calm. In the warmer months, the water temperature is generally pleasant enough for relaxed swimming and floating. Even so, the river still needs respect. Currents can change after upstream releases, and there are submerged snags and sudden depth changes. Avoiding high-flow periods and sticking to known spots makes swimming safer and more enjoyable around Hay.