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 13°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 on a steady rise over the past month and have continued to climb over the last week.
According to our forecast, the water temperature in Hay will be 13.4°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aug 14 | 12.4°C | 13.5°C | |
| Aug 15 | 12.5°C | 13.5°C | |
| Aug 16 | 12.0°C | 13.5°C | |
| Aug 17 | 12.0°C | 13.5°C | |
| Aug 18 | 12.0°C | 13.5°C | |
| Aug 19 | 11.9°C | 13.5°C | |
| Aug 20 | 12.2°C | 13.5°C | |
| Aug 21 | 12.4°C | 13.5°C | |
| Aug 22 | 12.5°C | 13.5°C | 12.5°C |
| Aug 23 | 13.5°C | 12.6°C | |
| Aug 24 | 13.5°C | 12.8°C | |
| Aug 25 | 13.5°C | 12.9°C | |
| Aug 26 | 13.5°C | 13.0°C | |
| Aug 27 | 13.5°C | 13.1°C | |
| Aug 28 | 13.5°C | 13.3°C | |
| Aug 29 | 13.5°C | 13.4°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.