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

15.0°C

Today

15.8°C

Yesterday

15.3°C

A Week Ago

The water temperature in Murrumbidgee River at Hay today is 15°C.

Water Temperature in Murrumbidgee River at Hay: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast

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 14.4°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
Apr 28	15.3°C	14.3°C
Apr 29	15.5°C	14.3°C
Apr 30	15.3°C	14.3°C
May 1	16.1°C	14.3°C
May 2	16.1°C	14.3°C
May 3	16.0°C	14.3°C
May 4	16.1°C	14.3°C
May 5	15.8°C	14.3°C
May 6	15.0°C	14.3°C	15.0°C
May 7		14.3°C	14.9°C
May 8		14.3°C	14.8°C
May 9		14.3°C	14.7°C
May 10		14.3°C	14.7°C
May 11		14.3°C	14.6°C
May 12		14.3°C	14.5°C
May 13		14.3°C	14.4°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.

Nearby Places

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current water temperature in Murrumbidgee River at Hay?

The water temperature in Murrumbidgee River at Hay today is 15°C.

What is the water temperature in Murrumbidgee River at Hay during the summer months?

In summer, water temperatures in Murrumbidgee River at Hay typically range from 19°C to 31°C.

Is it possible to swim in Murrumbidgee River at Hay (New South Wales)?

Yes — you can swim in the Murrumbidgee River at Hay (NSW), but conditions vary widely with the season and river flows: summer can be pleasant while water gets very cold in winter and after rain the currents, debris and depth changes can be hazardous. Always check with Hay Shire Council or local signage for water-quality advisories (including blue‑green algae), flood warnings and access restrictions, swim with a mate, avoid fast‑flowing sections and consider a lifejacket for children or unsure swimmers.