La Trobe River – current river water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current river water temperature at La Trobe River in Victoria. 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 La Trobe River today is 14°C.
Water Temperature in La Trobe River: 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 La Trobe 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 La Trobe River will be 11.8°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 | 14.2°C | 12.3°C | |
| Apr 29 | 14.0°C | 12.3°C | |
| Apr 30 | 14.0°C | 12.3°C | |
| May 1 | 14.0°C | 12.3°C | |
| May 2 | 14.0°C | 12.3°C | |
| May 3 | 13.7°C | 12.3°C | |
| May 4 | 14.4°C | 12.3°C | |
| May 5 | 14.4°C | 12.3°C | |
| May 6 | 13.5°C | 12.3°C | 13.5°C |
| May 7 | 12.3°C | 13.3°C | |
| May 8 | 12.3°C | 13.0°C | |
| May 9 | 12.3°C | 12.8°C | |
| May 10 | 12.3°C | 12.5°C | |
| May 11 | 12.3°C | 12.3°C | |
| May 12 | 12.3°C | 12.0°C | |
| May 13 | 12.3°C | 11.8°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 | 21°C | 23°C | 26°C |
| February | 19°C | 22°C | 25°C |
| March | 18°C | 20°C | 22°C |
| April | 14°C | 16°C | 20°C |
| May | 10°C | 12°C | 15°C |
| June | 8°C | 10°C | 12°C |
| July | 8°C | 9°C | 10°C |
| August | 8°C | 10°C | 12°C |
| September | 10°C | 13°C | 15°C |
| October | 13°C | 16°C | 19°C |
| November | 15°C | 19°C | 24°C |
| December | 18°C | 20°C | 23°C |
La Trobe River: Water Temperature by Location
Rosedale
🔗 Traralgon
Location & Local Information
Source Baw Baw plateau, Great Dividing Range
• location below Dick Hill, near Noojee
• coordinates 37°49′33″S 145°47′39″E
• elevation 764 m (2,507 ft)
Mouth Lake Wellington
• location east of Sale
• coordinates 37°54′11″S 147°37′20″E
• elevation 1 m (3 ft 3 in)
Length 270 km (170 mi)
The La Trobe River flows through Gippsland in eastern Victoria, carrying water from forested uplands down toward Lake Wellington. Water temperature here reflects the region’s cool-temperate climate and varies noticeably with the seasons. In summer, from December to February, the river usually sits around 18–22°C, sometimes feeling a little warmer in slow-moving stretches during hot weather. Spring and autumn are cooler and quite changeable, with water temperatures generally in the 14–18°C range. Winter brings the coldest conditions, often around 8–12°C, particularly after rain or during overcast periods. Releases and rainfall upstream can also influence how quickly the river warms or cools.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in the La Trobe River is generally allowed, but it’s more of a local, situational activity than a widespread pastime. In summer, when water levels are stable and temperatures are at their warmest, some people do swim in calmer sections, especially upstream of the lower, slower reaches. The water temperature can be refreshing rather than warm, making it better suited to short swims on hot days. However, water quality can vary due to industrial history, runoff and changing flows, and visibility is often limited. After heavy rain, currents can strengthen and swimming is best avoided. With settled weather and careful spot choice, swimming is possible, but the La Trobe is better known for fishing and riverside recreation than regular swimming.