Mersey River – current river water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current river water temperature at Mersey River in Tasmania. 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 Mersey River today is 14°C.
Water Temperature in Mersey River: 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 Mersey River 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 Mersey River will be 14.5°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 | 14.3°C | 14.5°C | |
| Mar 13 | 14.3°C | 14.5°C | |
| Mar 14 | 14.3°C | 14.5°C | |
| Mar 15 | 14.3°C | 14.5°C | |
| Mar 16 | 14.9°C | 14.5°C | |
| Mar 17 | 14.9°C | 14.5°C | |
| Mar 18 | 14.1°C | 14.5°C | |
| Mar 19 | 14.1°C | 14.5°C | |
| Mar 20 | 14.2°C | 14.5°C | 14.2°C |
| Mar 21 | 14.5°C | 14.2°C | |
| Mar 22 | 14.5°C | 14.3°C | |
| Mar 23 | 14.5°C | 14.3°C | |
| Mar 24 | 14.5°C | 14.4°C | |
| Mar 25 | 14.5°C | 14.4°C | |
| Mar 26 | 14.5°C | 14.4°C | |
| Mar 27 | 14.5°C | 14.5°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 | 12°C | 16°C | 23°C |
| February | 12°C | 15°C | 22°C |
| March | 12°C | 15°C | 20°C |
| April | 12°C | 14°C | 16°C |
| May | 8°C | 13°C | 15°C |
| June | 7°C | 12°C | 15°C |
| July | 7°C | 12°C | 15°C |
| August | 7°C | 12°C | 15°C |
| September | 9°C | 13°C | 15°C |
| October | 12°C | 14°C | 16°C |
| November | 12°C | 15°C | 19°C |
| December | 12°C | 15°C | 22°C |
Location & Local Information
Source Lake Meston
• location Walls of Jerusalem National Park
• coordinates 41°53′56″S 146°13′40″E
• elevation 1,022 m (3,353 ft)
Mouth Bass Strait
• location Devonport
Length 147 km (91 mi)
The Mersey River is a northern Tasmanian treasure, winding from the rugged Great Western Tiers down to the bustling port of Devonport. If you’re thinking about a dip, you’ve got to be prepared for that classic Tassie freshness that’ll wake you up faster than a magpie in spring. In the height of summer, the water temperature usually peaks between 17°C and 20°C, especially in the shallower reaches or where the sun has had a good crack at it. Come winter, the mercury takes a proper dive, often sitting between a brisk 7°C and 11°C. It’s the kind of chill that’ll make your heart skip a beat, so most locals keep their boots on or reach for a thick steamer if they’re keen for a paddle.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming is definitely allowed and is a ripper way to spend a summer afternoon, particularly around the sandy banks of the Mersey Bluff or the calmer stretches near Latrobe. It’s a popular spot for a splash because the river is generally clean, though you’ve got to use your noggin and steer clear for a few days after a heavy downpour when the runoff can make things a bit murky. You also need to keep your wits about you regarding the tides and currents near the river mouth, where the Spirit of Tasmania and other big boats are moving through. As long as you stick to the designated recreation areas and keep an eye out for submerged snags, it’s a gold-standard spot to cool off and enjoy the scenery.