McArthur River – current river water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current river water temperature at McArthur River in Northern Territory. 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 McArthur River today is 29°C.
Water Temperature in McArthur River: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
✅ River temperatures above 25°C feel warm and are well suited to leisurely swimming and floating. Comfort remains high even if air temperatures are slightly cooler, though hot weather can make the water feel less refreshing. In slower-flowing rivers, very warm water may feel stagnant, especially during heatwaves. Weather conditions such as strong sun or high humidity can further influence how pleasant the swim feels.
Water Temperature Over the Last 30 Days
Water temperatures in McArthur Riverfell over the past month, but have levelled out during the last week.
According to our forecast, the water temperature in McArthur River will be 30.3°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mar 12 | 29.0°C | 30.5°C | |
| Mar 13 | 29.0°C | 30.5°C | |
| Mar 14 | 29.0°C | 30.5°C | |
| Mar 15 | 29.0°C | 30.5°C | |
| Mar 16 | 29.0°C | 30.5°C | |
| Mar 17 | 29.0°C | 30.5°C | |
| Mar 18 | 29.0°C | 30.5°C | |
| Mar 19 | 29.0°C | 30.5°C | |
| Mar 20 | 29.0°C | 30.5°C | 29.0°C |
| Mar 21 | 30.5°C | 29.2°C | |
| Mar 22 | 30.5°C | 29.4°C | |
| Mar 23 | 30.5°C | 29.6°C | |
| Mar 24 | 30.5°C | 29.8°C | |
| Mar 25 | 30.5°C | 29.9°C | |
| Mar 26 | 30.5°C | 30.1°C | |
| Mar 27 | 30.5°C | 30.3°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 | 30°C | 31°C | 32°C |
| February | 30°C | 31°C | 32°C |
| March | 29°C | 31°C | 31°C |
| April | 27°C | 29°C | 31°C |
| May | 25°C | 27°C | 29°C |
| June | 22°C | 25°C | 27°C |
| July | 21°C | 24°C | 26°C |
| August | 22°C | 24°C | 27°C |
| September | 22°C | 25°C | 30°C |
| October | 27°C | 30°C | 31°C |
| November | 27°C | 31°C | 32°C |
| December | 30°C | 31°C | 32°C |
McArthur River: Water Temperature by Location
Borroloola
Location & Local Information
Source Barkly Tableland
• location east of Elliott
• elevation 234 m (768 ft)
Mouth Gulf of Carpentaria
• location east of Borroloola
• coordinates 15°54′S 136°40′E
• elevation 0 m (0 ft)
Length 521 km (324 mi)
The McArthur River flows through the Gulf Country of the Northern Territory, and its water temperature is shaped by a hot tropical climate with strong wet and dry seasons. During the Wet Season, roughly December to March, water temperatures are usually warm, commonly around 26–31°C, sometimes dipping briefly when heavy rain and fresh runoff move through the system. Once flows settle, the river warms quickly again. In the Dry Season, from about May to September, conditions are more stable and water temperatures generally sit between 23–28°C. Even in the cooler months, the McArthur rarely feels cold, particularly in deeper pools that hold water year-round and change temperature slowly.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in the McArthur River is generally allowed, but it needs to be approached with care and local knowledge. In the Dry Season, people may swim in permanent waterholes where the water is clear and calm, and the warm temperature makes it comfortable for more than a quick dip. However, this is crocodile country. Saltwater crocodiles are known to inhabit the river, especially in the lower and middle reaches and after wet seasons. Strong currents during floods, muddy banks and submerged timber also add risk. For these reasons, swimming is best limited to well-known spots and only when current local advice suggests conditions are suitable.