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 25°C.
Water Temperature in Johnstone River at Innisfail: 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
Water temperatures in Innisfailfell over the past month, but have levelled out during the last week.
According to our forecast, the water temperature in Innisfail will be 25.7°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mar 12 | 25.7°C | 25.8°C | |
| Mar 13 | 25.0°C | 25.8°C | |
| Mar 14 | 25.0°C | 25.8°C | |
| Mar 15 | 25.0°C | 25.8°C | |
| Mar 16 | 25.0°C | 25.8°C | |
| Mar 17 | 25.0°C | 25.8°C | |
| Mar 18 | 25.0°C | 25.8°C | |
| Mar 19 | 25.0°C | 25.8°C | |
| Mar 20 | 25.0°C | 25.8°C | 25.0°C |
| Mar 21 | 25.8°C | 25.1°C | |
| Mar 22 | 25.8°C | 25.2°C | |
| Mar 23 | 25.8°C | 25.3°C | |
| Mar 24 | 25.8°C | 25.4°C | |
| Mar 25 | 25.8°C | 25.5°C | |
| Mar 26 | 25.8°C | 25.6°C | |
| Mar 27 | 25.8°C | 25.7°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 | 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.