Lachlan River – current river water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current river water temperature at Lachlan River in New South Wales. 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 Lachlan River today is 12°C.
Water Temperature in Lachlan 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 Lachlan River have been on a steady rise over the past month and have continued to climb over the last week.
According to our forecast, the water temperature in Lachlan River will be 12.1°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aug 14 | 11.8°C | 12.0°C | |
| Aug 15 | 11.9°C | 12.0°C | |
| Aug 16 | 11.4°C | 12.0°C | |
| Aug 17 | 11.4°C | 12.0°C | |
| Aug 18 | 11.4°C | 12.0°C | |
| Aug 19 | 11.4°C | 12.0°C | |
| Aug 20 | 11.9°C | 12.0°C | |
| Aug 21 | 12.3°C | 12.0°C | |
| Aug 22 | 12.4°C | 12.0°C | 12.4°C |
| Aug 23 | 12.0°C | 12.4°C | |
| Aug 24 | 12.0°C | 12.3°C | |
| Aug 25 | 12.0°C | 12.3°C | |
| Aug 26 | 12.0°C | 12.2°C | |
| Aug 27 | 12.0°C | 12.2°C | |
| Aug 28 | 12.0°C | 12.1°C | |
| Aug 29 | 12.0°C | 12.1°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 | 24°C | 27°C | 28°C |
| March | 22°C | 24°C | 26°C |
| April | 16°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| May | 12°C | 15°C | 17°C |
| June | 10°C | 11°C | 13°C |
| July | 9°C | 10°C | 12°C |
| August | 9°C | 12°C | 15°C |
| September | 13°C | 16°C | 18°C |
| October | 17°C | 20°C | 22°C |
| November | 20°C | 23°C | 25°C |
| December | 24°C | 26°C | 27°C |
Lachlan River: Water Temperature by Location
Bevendale
Reids Flat
🔗 Wyangala
🔗 Cowra
Gooloogong
🔗 Forbes
🔗 Condobolin
Hillston
Oxley
Location & Local Information
Source Great Dividing Range
Source confluence Hannans Creek and Mutmutbilly Creek
• location east of Gunning
• coordinates 34°46′58″S 149°32′7″E
• elevation 699 m (2,293 ft)
Mouth Murrumbidgee River
• location near Oxley
• coordinates 34°22′S 143°47′E
• elevation 68 m (223 ft)
Length 1,440 km (890 mi)
The Lachlan River winds its way across central New South Wales, flowing through farming country where the climate is distinctly inland. Water temperature in the Lachlan shifts a lot over the year. In summer, from December to February, the river commonly sits around 22–28°C, especially in slower pools and weir sections where the water has time to warm up. During heatwaves, it can feel almost bath-like. Spring and autumn are more comfortable, with temperatures generally in the 15–22°C range. Winter cools things right down, and water temperatures often drop to about 8–12°C, making it feel sharp and refreshing rather than inviting.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in the Lachlan River is generally allowed and is a familiar pastime in many towns along its course, particularly in summer when air temperatures climb quickly. The warmer water makes it suitable for proper swimming rather than just a quick splash, especially in calm stretches near bridges or designated river areas. However, conditions vary widely. Flow levels can change with releases and rainfall, and water quality can be an issue during hot, low-flow periods, sometimes leading to algae warnings. Submerged snags and muddy banks are also common. With a bit of local knowledge, sensible timing and attention to conditions, swimming in the Lachlan can be enjoyable, but it always pays to take care.