Lake Mulwaia – water temperature at Murray River
This page provides up-to-date information about the water temperature at Lake Mulwaia, located on the Murray River in New South Wales. Here you can check current conditions, view recent temperature trends, explore typical monthly ranges, and compare today’s reading with historical averages for this date. The page also includes a 7-day water temperature forecast, local weather information, and swimming conditions.
Current Water Temperature
The water temperature in Murray River at Lake Mulwaia today is 12°C.
Water Temperature in Murray River at Lake Mulwaia: 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 Lake Mulwaia 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 Lake Mulwaia will be 10.8°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aug 15 | 11.6°C | 10.5°C | |
| Aug 16 | 11.7°C | 10.5°C | |
| Aug 17 | 11.3°C | 10.5°C | |
| Aug 18 | 11.4°C | 10.5°C | |
| Aug 19 | 11.4°C | 10.5°C | |
| Aug 20 | 11.5°C | 10.5°C | |
| Aug 21 | 11.6°C | 10.5°C | |
| Aug 22 | 11.8°C | 10.5°C | |
| Aug 23 | 12.0°C | 10.5°C | 12.0°C |
| Aug 24 | 10.5°C | 11.8°C | |
| Aug 25 | 10.5°C | 11.7°C | |
| Aug 26 | 10.5°C | 11.5°C | |
| Aug 27 | 10.5°C | 11.3°C | |
| Aug 28 | 10.5°C | 11.1°C | |
| Aug 29 | 10.5°C | 11.0°C | |
| Aug 30 | 10.5°C | 10.8°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 | 24°C | 26°C |
| February | 20°C | 24°C | 26°C |
| March | 18°C | 22°C | 25°C |
| April | 13°C | 17°C | 21°C |
| May | 10°C | 13°C | 16°C |
| June | 8°C | 10°C | 12°C |
| July | 8°C | 10°C | 10°C |
| August | 8°C | 11°C | 13°C |
| September | 11°C | 13°C | 16°C |
| October | 15°C | 17°C | 19°C |
| November | 17°C | 20°C | 23°C |
| December | 20°C | 22°C | 25°C |
Location & Local Information
Lake Mulwala is a broad, slow-moving section of the Murray River on the NSW–Victoria border, and its water temperature follows the patterns of the surrounding inland climate. In summer, from December to February, the lake usually sits around 22–26 °C, with shallow bays warming quickly during hot spells. Autumn sees a steady drop to roughly 16–20 °C, while winter temperatures are much cooler, commonly around 10–14 °C. Spring brings gradual warming again, often reaching 15–20 °C by late October. Because Lake Mulwala is relatively shallow compared to fast-flowing river sections, it tends to warm a bit more evenly and feels less icy than downstream stretches.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming at Lake Mulwala is generally allowed and very popular, particularly in summer. The calm, lake-like conditions make it well suited for casual swimming, families, and water sports, with far less current than a typical river channel. Water quality is usually suitable for recreation, although algae blooms can occur in warmer months, and locals keep an eye on official warnings. Outside of peak summer, the cooler water can feel brisk, especially in winter. Overall, Lake Mulwala is considered one of the more comfortable and accessible spots along the Murray for swimming, especially when the heat really kicks in.