Innisfail – water temperature at Johnstone River
This page provides up-to-date information about the water temperature at Innisfail, located on the Johnstone River in Queensland. 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 Johnstone River at Innisfail today is 22°C.
Water Temperature in Johnstone River at Innisfail: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
✅ River water between 20 and 25°C is ideal for swimming and offers very comfortable conditions for most people. Combined with warm air temperatures and settled weather, this range is perfect for extended swims and family-friendly activities. Rivers may still feel slightly cooler than lakes due to gentle currents, which many swimmers find refreshing. Even on partly cloudy days, swimming remains enjoyable.
Water Temperature Over the Last 30 Days
Water temperatures in Innisfail 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 Innisfail will be 22.6°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 | 23.0°C | 22.8°C | |
| Apr 29 | 23.0°C | 22.8°C | |
| Apr 30 | 23.0°C | 22.8°C | |
| May 1 | 23.0°C | 22.8°C | |
| May 2 | 23.0°C | 22.8°C | |
| May 3 | 22.1°C | 22.8°C | |
| May 4 | 22.1°C | 22.8°C | |
| May 5 | 22.1°C | 22.8°C | |
| May 6 | 22.1°C | 22.8°C | 22.1°C |
| May 7 | 22.8°C | 22.2°C | |
| May 8 | 22.8°C | 22.3°C | |
| May 9 | 22.8°C | 22.3°C | |
| May 10 | 22.8°C | 22.4°C | |
| May 11 | 22.8°C | 22.5°C | |
| May 12 | 22.8°C | 22.6°C | |
| May 13 | 22.8°C | 22.6°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 | 25°C | 27°C | 29°C |
| February | 25°C | 26°C | 28°C |
| March | 25°C | 26°C | 27°C |
| April | 23°C | 25°C | 26°C |
| May | 21°C | 23°C | 25°C |
| June | 19°C | 22°C | 25°C |
| July | 20°C | 21°C | 23°C |
| August | 21°C | 22°C | 25°C |
| September | 22°C | 24°C | 26°C |
| October | 25°C | 26°C | 28°C |
| November | 24°C | 27°C | 29°C |
| December | 26°C | 28°C | 30°C |
Location & Local Information
Innisfail sits near the mouth of the Johnstone River, where heavy tropical rainfall and warm conditions shape the river year-round. Water temperatures here stay consistently warm thanks to the Far North Queensland climate. In summer and through the Wet Season, roughly December to March, the river commonly sits around 26–30°C, sometimes dipping briefly after intense rain before warming again. During the drier months from May to September, temperatures are only slightly lower, usually in the 23–27°C range. Even in winter, the water rarely feels cool, especially in deeper sections where temperatures stay stable despite changing weather.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in the Johnstone River at Innisfail is technically allowed, but it’s generally not recommended. While the warm water can look inviting, the river carries significant risks. Strong currents are common, particularly after rain, and visibility is often poor due to runoff and sediment. Most importantly, the lower Johnstone is known saltwater crocodile habitat, and crocs can be present at any time of year. Because of this, locals and visitors usually avoid swimming in the river itself and instead head to nearby waterfalls, creeks and managed swimming areas inland that are regularly monitored for safety. Around Innisfail, the Johnstone is better appreciated as a powerful tropical river rather than a place for a swim.