Johnstone River – current river water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current river water temperature at Johnstone 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 Johnstone River today is 22°C.
Water Temperature in Johnstone River: 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 Johnstone River 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 Johnstone River will be 22.7°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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 | 22.2°C | 22.8°C | 22.2°C |
| May 7 | 22.8°C | 22.3°C | |
| May 8 | 22.8°C | 22.4°C | |
| May 9 | 22.8°C | 22.4°C | |
| May 10 | 22.8°C | 22.5°C | |
| May 11 | 22.8°C | 22.6°C | |
| May 12 | 22.8°C | 22.7°C | |
| May 13 | 22.8°C | 22.7°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 |
Johnstone River: Water Temperature by Location
🔗 Innisfail
Location & Local Information
Source Atherton Tableland
Mouth Coral Sea
• location between Flying Fish Point and Coquette Point
Length 200 km (120 mi)
The Johnstone River flows through Far North Queensland, draining the wet tropics around Innisfail before reaching the Coral Sea. Water temperature here is shaped by the tropical climate and high rainfall. In summer and through the Wet Season, roughly from December to March, the river is usually warm, commonly around 26–30°C, though heavy rain can cool it briefly as fresh water rushes through. During the drier months from May to September, temperatures remain comfortable, generally sitting between 23–27°C. Even in winter, the water rarely feels cold, especially in deeper sections where temperature changes are gradual.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in the Johnstone River is technically allowed, but it’s not generally recommended. While the water temperature can be very inviting, particularly in the Dry Season, the river presents several safety concerns. Strong currents are common, especially after rain, and visibility is often poor. The lower reaches are also known habitat for saltwater crocodiles, and they can move well upstream, particularly after wet seasons. In addition, submerged debris and sudden depth changes increase risk. Because of this, locals tend to avoid swimming in the main river and instead choose nearby creeks, waterfalls or designated swimming spots that are regularly checked for safety. Around the Johnstone, water temperature alone doesn’t make it a safe swimming option.