Macksville – water temperature at Nambucca River
This page provides up-to-date information about the water temperature at Macksville, located on the Nambucca 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 Nambucca River at Macksville today is 15°C.
Water Temperature in Nambucca River at Macksville: 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 Macksville 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 Macksville will be 15.9°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jun 13 | 15.7°C | 16.0°C | |
| Jun 14 | 15.9°C | 16.0°C | |
| Jun 15 | 15.9°C | 16.0°C | |
| Jun 16 | 15.6°C | 16.0°C | |
| Jun 17 | 15.5°C | 16.0°C | |
| Jun 18 | 15.6°C | 16.0°C | |
| Jun 19 | 15.2°C | 16.0°C | |
| Jun 20 | 14.8°C | 16.0°C | |
| Jun 21 | 14.8°C | 16.0°C | 14.8°C |
| Jun 22 | 16.0°C | 15.0°C | |
| Jun 23 | 16.0°C | 15.1°C | |
| Jun 24 | 16.0°C | 15.3°C | |
| Jun 25 | 16.0°C | 15.4°C | |
| Jun 26 | 16.0°C | 15.6°C | |
| Jun 27 | 16.0°C | 15.7°C | |
| Jun 28 | 16.0°C | 15.9°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 | 22°C | 25°C | 27°C |
| February | 21°C | 25°C | 27°C |
| March | 22°C | 24°C | 26°C |
| April | 19°C | 21°C | 23°C |
| May | 17°C | 18°C | 21°C |
| June | 14°C | 16°C | 18°C |
| July | 14°C | 16°C | 17°C |
| August | 13°C | 17°C | 19°C |
| September | 15°C | 19°C | 21°C |
| October | 17°C | 21°C | 23°C |
| November | 19°C | 23°C | 24°C |
| December | 21°C | 24°C | 26°C |
Location & Local Information
Macksville is a charming river town on the Mid North Coast of New South Wales, where the Nambucca River takes on a wide, sleepy character that's perfect for a day on the water. If you're looking to jump in, you’ll find the water temperature is an absolute ripper for most of the year. During the scorching summer months, the river warms up beautifully, usually sitting between 24°C and 27°C—pretty much like stepping into a lukewarm bath. When winter rolls around, the mercury dips a bit, but it’s rarely a shocker, generally hovering between 18°C and 20°C. While it might be a bit fresh for a long soak in July, it’s still spot on for a quick splash if the sun is out and about.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming is definitely allowed in Macksville, and the river is a major drawcard for the town. The long, straight stretches are legendary for water-skiing and jet-skiing, but if you're after a more relaxed dip, the shallower edges near the town’s parks are the way to go. The water is generally top-notch because there’s not a heap of agricultural runoff, but you’ve still got to use your noggin. Since it’s a tidal river, the currents can be a bit sneaky, and the visibility can drop after a heavy downpour. It’s always best to avoid the water for a day or two after rain to let things settle. As long as you keep an eye on the boaties and stick to the sandy banks, it's a gold-standard spot to cool off.