King Edward River – current river water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current river water temperature at King Edward River in Western Australia. 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 King Edward River today is 29°C.
Water Temperature in King Edward 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
Water temperatures in King Edward 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 King Edward River will be 28.2°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mar 12 | 29.5°C | 28.0°C | |
| Mar 13 | 29.4°C | 28.0°C | |
| Mar 14 | 29.4°C | 28.0°C | |
| Mar 15 | 29.4°C | 28.0°C | |
| Mar 16 | 29.3°C | 28.0°C | |
| Mar 17 | 29.1°C | 28.0°C | |
| Mar 18 | 29.1°C | 28.0°C | |
| Mar 19 | 28.6°C | 28.0°C | |
| Mar 20 | 28.7°C | 28.0°C | 28.7°C |
| Mar 21 | 28.0°C | 28.6°C | |
| Mar 22 | 28.0°C | 28.6°C | |
| Mar 23 | 28.0°C | 28.5°C | |
| Mar 24 | 28.0°C | 28.4°C | |
| Mar 25 | 28.0°C | 28.3°C | |
| Mar 26 | 28.0°C | 28.3°C | |
| Mar 27 | 28.0°C | 28.2°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 | 29°C | 32°C | 33°C |
| February | 29°C | 32°C | 33°C |
| March | 27°C | 28°C | 30°C |
| April | 22°C | 26°C | 28°C |
| May | 22°C | 26°C | 28°C |
| June | 21°C | 25°C | 28°C |
| July | 21°C | 25°C | 28°C |
| August | 21°C | 25°C | 28°C |
| September | 22°C | 26°C | 28°C |
| October | 27°C | 28°C | 30°C |
| November | 29°C | 32°C | 33°C |
| December | 29°C | 32°C | 33°C |
Location & Local Information
Source:
• location Poonjurra Hill
• elevation 480 metres (1,575 ft)
Mouth:
• location Napier Broome Bay
• elevation sea level
Length 221 kilometres (137 mi)
The King Edward River, also known locally as the Mitchell Plateau river system, flows through the remote Kimberley in far north Western Australia. Water temperature here is shaped by a hot tropical climate with strong wet and dry seasons. During the Wet Season, roughly from December to March, water temperatures are usually warm, commonly around 26–32°C, with fresh rainfall sometimes cooling the river briefly before it warms again under the sun. In the Dry Season, from about May to September, conditions are more stable and water temperatures generally sit between 22–28°C. Even in the cooler months, the river rarely feels cold, especially in deeper pools shaded by sandstone cliffs and vegetation.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in the King Edward River is generally allowed and is one of the highlights for people visiting the area, particularly in the Dry Season. The river is well known for its clear water and a series of rock pools and small cascades, where the temperature is comfortable for longer swims rather than just a quick dip. Importantly, this is one of the few Kimberley rivers where saltwater crocodiles are not usually present, which makes swimming more feasible than in many nearby systems. Even so, care is still needed. Slippery rocks, variable depths and sudden flows after rain can be hazards. With settled conditions and sensible spot choice, swimming here can be both refreshing and memorable.