Holroyd River – current river water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current river water temperature at Holroyd River in Queensland. 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 Holroyd River today is 29°C.
Water Temperature in Holroyd River: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
✅ River temperatures above 25°C feel warm and are well suited to leisurely swimming and floating. Comfort remains high even if air temperatures are slightly cooler, though hot weather can make the water feel less refreshing. In slower-flowing rivers, very warm water may feel stagnant, especially during heatwaves. Weather conditions such as strong sun or high humidity can further influence how pleasant the swim feels.
Water Temperature Over the Last 30 Days
Over the last 30 days, water temperatures in Holroyd River have trended upward, with conditions remaining relatively stable over the past week.
According to our forecast, the water temperature in Holroyd River will be 30.8°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mar 12 | 29.0°C | 31.0°C | |
| Mar 13 | 29.0°C | 31.0°C | |
| Mar 14 | 29.0°C | 31.0°C | |
| Mar 15 | 29.0°C | 31.0°C | |
| Mar 16 | 29.0°C | 31.0°C | |
| Mar 17 | 29.0°C | 31.0°C | |
| Mar 18 | 29.0°C | 31.0°C | |
| Mar 19 | 29.0°C | 31.0°C | |
| Mar 20 | 29.0°C | 31.0°C | 29.0°C |
| Mar 21 | 31.0°C | 29.3°C | |
| Mar 22 | 31.0°C | 29.5°C | |
| Mar 23 | 31.0°C | 29.8°C | |
| Mar 24 | 31.0°C | 30.0°C | |
| Mar 25 | 31.0°C | 30.3°C | |
| Mar 26 | 31.0°C | 30.5°C | |
| Mar 27 | 31.0°C | 30.8°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 | 30°C | 31°C | 31°C |
| February | 27°C | 29°C | 31°C |
| March | 29°C | 31°C | 33°C |
| April | 28°C | 29°C | 33°C |
| May | 26°C | 27°C | 29°C |
| June | 24°C | 26°C | 28°C |
| July | 24°C | 25°C | 25°C |
| August | 25°C | 27°C | 28°C |
| September | 27°C | 28°C | 29°C |
| October | 29°C | 31°C | 32°C |
| November | 31°C | 31°C | 32°C |
| December | 31°C | 32°C | 32°C |
Location & Local Information
Source McIlwraith Range
• location below Mount White
• elevation 187 m (614 ft)
Mouth Gulf of Carpentaria
• location Kulinchin Outstation
• coordinates 14°09′54″S 141°35′44″E
• elevation 0 m (0 ft)
Length 325 km (202 mi)
The Holroyd River flows through remote Cape York Peninsula, draining tropical savannah country before reaching the Gulf of Carpentaria. Water temperature here is strongly shaped by the monsoonal climate and seasonal rainfall. In the Wet Season, roughly from December to March, the river runs high and warm, with water temperatures commonly around 26–32°C. Heavy rain and fresh flows can cool the water briefly, but it warms again quickly once flooding eases. During the Dry Season, from about May to September, conditions are calmer and water temperatures usually sit between 22–28°C. Even in winter, the Holroyd rarely feels cold, especially in deeper pools that hold water year-round.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in the Holroyd River is generally allowed, but it requires caution and local knowledge. In the Dry Season, people may swim in permanent inland waterholes where the water is clear and the temperature is comfortable for more than a quick dip. However, this is crocodile country. Saltwater crocodiles are present in the system, particularly in lower reaches and after wet seasons when they move further upstream. Water quality can also change late in the dry season, and banks are often steep or muddy. For these reasons, swimming is best limited to well-known spots and only when local advice confirms conditions are suitable.