Launceston – water temperature at Tamar River
This page provides up-to-date information about the water temperature at Launceston, located on the Tamar River in Tasmania. 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 Tamar River at Launceston today is 11°C.
Water Temperature in Tamar River at Launceston: 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 Launceston 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 Launceston will be 8.6°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 | 11.2°C | 8.3°C | |
| Apr 29 | 11.1°C | 8.3°C | |
| Apr 30 | 11.0°C | 8.3°C | |
| May 1 | 11.6°C | 8.3°C | |
| May 2 | 11.0°C | 8.3°C | |
| May 3 | 11.0°C | 8.3°C | |
| May 4 | 11.0°C | 8.3°C | |
| May 5 | 11.0°C | 8.3°C | |
| May 6 | 10.7°C | 8.3°C | 10.7°C |
| May 7 | 8.3°C | 10.4°C | |
| May 8 | 8.3°C | 10.1°C | |
| May 9 | 8.3°C | 9.8°C | |
| May 10 | 8.3°C | 9.5°C | |
| May 11 | 8.3°C | 9.2°C | |
| May 12 | 8.3°C | 8.9°C | |
| May 13 | 8.3°C | 8.6°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 | 16°C | 20°C | 22°C |
| February | 16°C | 19°C | 21°C |
| March | 13°C | 17°C | 19°C |
| April | 9°C | 12°C | 15°C |
| May | 6°C | 8°C | 11°C |
| June | 5°C | 6°C | 8°C |
| July | 5°C | 6°C | 8°C |
| August | 6°C | 8°C | 10°C |
| September | 7°C | 9°C | 12°C |
| October | 10°C | 12°C | 17°C |
| November | 12°C | 16°C | 19°C |
| December | 14°C | 18°C | 21°C |
Location & Local Information
Launceston is a proper Tassie icon where the North and South Esk rivers meet to form the mighty Tamar River, or kanamaluka. Being down in the Apple Isle, the water temperature is definitely on the invigorating side. During the height of a cracking summer, you’re looking at water temperatures peaking between 17°C and 19°C, which is a ripper way to cool off when the valley heat is cranking. In the winter, however, the mercury takes a proper dive, often sitting between 10°C and 13°C. It’s the kind of fresh that’ll give you a real wake-up call, so most locals keep their toes dry or opt for a thick steamer if they’re heading out for a paddle.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming is technically allowed in the Tamar, but you’ve got to use your noggin and pick your spots carefully. The upper reaches near the city often struggle with water quality issues, especially after a heavy downpour when the old drainage system can get overwhelmed, so the council generally reckons you should steer clear for at least three days after rain. Because of this, most folks in Lonnie head to the First Basin at Cataract Gorge for a proper freshwater soak in the sunshine. If you’re dead set on the river itself, you’re better off heading a bit further north to the clearer, more marine-influenced waters near Gravelly Beach or Low Head. As long as you check the local health alerts and keep an eye on the tides, it's a legendary way to see the valley from the water.