Jerrabomberra Creek – current river water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current river water temperature at Jerrabomberra Creek in Australian Capital Territory. 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 Jerrabomberra Creek today is 11°C.
Water Temperature in Jerrabomberra Creek: 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 Jerrabomberra Creek 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 Jerrabomberra Creek will be 11.2°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 | 11.8°C | 11.3°C | |
| Apr 29 | 11.8°C | 11.3°C | |
| Apr 30 | 11.5°C | 11.3°C | |
| May 1 | 11.8°C | 11.3°C | |
| May 2 | 11.9°C | 11.3°C | |
| May 3 | 11.8°C | 11.3°C | |
| May 4 | 11.7°C | 11.3°C | |
| May 5 | 11.6°C | 11.3°C | |
| May 6 | 11.4°C | 11.3°C | 11.4°C |
| May 7 | 11.3°C | 11.4°C | |
| May 8 | 11.3°C | 11.4°C | |
| May 9 | 11.3°C | 11.3°C | |
| May 10 | 11.3°C | 11.3°C | |
| May 11 | 11.3°C | 11.3°C | |
| May 12 | 11.3°C | 11.3°C | |
| May 13 | 11.3°C | 11.2°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 | 18°C | 23°C | 29°C |
| February | 18°C | 22°C | 27°C |
| March | 16°C | 20°C | 23°C |
| April | 10°C | 15°C | 19°C |
| May | 7°C | 11°C | 14°C |
| June | 7°C | 9°C | 13°C |
| July | 6°C | 8°C | 10°C |
| August | 6°C | 9°C | 11°C |
| September | 9°C | 13°C | 16°C |
| October | 11°C | 16°C | 21°C |
| November | 15°C | 20°C | 24°C |
| December | 15°C | 21°C | 27°C |
Location & Local Information
Source below Lobb Hill
• location between Williamsdale and Royalla, NSW
• elevation 1,010 m (3,310 ft)
Mouth confluence with Molonglo River
• location Lake Burley Griffin, ACT
• elevation 554 m (1,818 ft)
Length 35 km (22 mi)
The Jerrabomberra Creek winds its way through the southern edge of Canberra before joining the Molonglo, and it behaves much like a typical urban creek. Water temperature changes quickly with the seasons and even from day to day. In summer, from December to February, temperatures in deeper pools can reach around 18–24°C, warming rapidly during hot spells. Spring and autumn are milder, with water usually sitting in the 12–18°C range. Winter brings a noticeable chill, and temperatures often drop to about 6–10°C, especially after cold nights. Because flows are generally low and slow, shallow sections can heat up or cool down very fast.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in Jerrabomberra Creek is technically allowed, but it’s not really suited to regular swimming. While the water might look tempting on a hot summer afternoon, water quality can be variable due to urban runoff, nutrients and occasional algae issues. The creek also has muddy banks, shallow stretches and submerged debris, which make entry awkward and increase risk. Locals generally don’t treat it as a swimming spot, instead choosing nearby lakes or larger rivers for a proper dip. At best, Jerrabomberra Creek might offer a brief paddle or splash to cool off, but it’s better appreciated as part of the local landscape rather than a go-to swimming hole.