Leichhardt River – current river water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current river water temperature at Leichhardt River in Queensland. 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 Leichhardt River today is 19°C.
Water Temperature in Leichhardt River: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ A river temperature of 15 to 20°C is generally considered cool to comfortable for swimming in Australia. On warm, calm days, this range allows for relaxed swimming and longer time in the water. Comfort depends heavily on air temperature and sunshine, as cooler weather can still make the water feel chilly. This range is popular for river swimming during spring and early autumn.
Water Temperature Over the Last 30 Days
Over the past 30 days, water temperatures in Leichhardt River have generally increased, although a slight cooling trend has set in over the last week.
According to our forecast, the water temperature in Leichhardt River will be 21.0°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 | 19.9°C | 21.0°C | |
| Aug 16 | 19.9°C | 21.0°C | |
| Aug 17 | 19.3°C | 21.0°C | |
| Aug 18 | 19.0°C | 21.0°C | |
| Aug 19 | 19.4°C | 21.0°C | |
| Aug 20 | 19.1°C | 21.0°C | |
| Aug 21 | 18.7°C | 21.0°C | |
| Aug 22 | 18.4°C | 21.0°C | |
| Aug 23 | 19.2°C | 21.0°C | 19.2°C |
| Aug 24 | 21.0°C | 19.5°C | |
| Aug 25 | 21.0°C | 19.7°C | |
| Aug 26 | 21.0°C | 20.0°C | |
| Aug 27 | 21.0°C | 20.3°C | |
| Aug 28 | 21.0°C | 20.5°C | |
| Aug 29 | 21.0°C | 20.8°C | |
| Aug 30 | 21.0°C | 21.0°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 | 29°C | 31°C |
| February | 25°C | 29°C | 32°C |
| March | 26°C | 29°C | 31°C |
| April | 23°C | 26°C | 29°C |
| May | 20°C | 23°C | 26°C |
| June | 17°C | 20°C | 22°C |
| July | 17°C | 20°C | 23°C |
| August | 18°C | 21°C | 25°C |
| September | 20°C | 25°C | 32°C |
| October | 22°C | 27°C | 33°C |
| November | 22°C | 27°C | 30°C |
| December | 22°C | 28°C | 31°C |
Leichhardt River: Water Temperature by Location
🔗 Lake Julius
🔗 Lake Moondarra
Location & Local Information
Source Rifle Creek
• location Selwyn Range, Australia
• elevation 406 m (1,332 ft)
Mouth:
• location Gulf of Carpentaria, Australia
• coordinates 17°34′46″S 139°47′37″E
• elevation 0 m (0 ft)
Length 630 km (390 mi)
The Leichhardt River flows through the Gulf Country of north-west Queensland, running from inland savannah down to the coast near Karumba. Its water temperature is closely tied to the tropical climate and strong seasonal contrasts. During the Wet Season, roughly December to March, the river carries fresh flows and water temperatures are usually warm, commonly around 26–32°C. Heavy rain can cool the river briefly, but once flooding eases the water warms quickly again. In the Dry Season, from about May to September, temperatures are slightly lower but still comfortable, generally sitting between 22–28°C. Even in winter, the Leichhardt rarely feels cold, especially in deeper pools that retain water through the dry months.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in the Leichhardt River is generally allowed, but it requires care and local knowledge. In the Dry Season, people may swim in permanent waterholes where flows are low and the water is clear, and the warm temperature makes it suitable for a proper swim. However, this is crocodile habitat. Saltwater crocodiles are known to use the river system, particularly in the lower reaches and after wet seasons. Water quality can also decline late in the dry season, and banks may be muddy or unstable. Because of these factors, swimming is best limited to known spots with up-to-date local advice.