Murray River – current river water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current river water temperature at Murray River in Australia. 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

21.3°C

Today

21.3°C

Yesterday

20.1°C

A Week Ago

The water temperature in Murray River today is 21°C.

Water Temperature in Murray River: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast

✅ River water between 20 and 25°C is ideal for swimming and offers very comfortable conditions for most people. Combined with warm air temperatures and settled weather, this range is perfect for extended swims and family-friendly activities. Rivers may still feel slightly cooler than lakes due to gentle currents, which many swimmers find refreshing. Even on partly cloudy days, swimming remains enjoyable.

Water Temperature Over the Last 30 Days

While water temperatures in Murray River declined overall during the past month, they have shown a noticeable rebound over the last week.

According to our forecast, the water temperature in Murray River will be 23.1°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	22.4°C	23.3°C
Mar 13	22.3°C	23.3°C
Mar 14	20.1°C	23.3°C
Mar 15	20.0°C	23.3°C
Mar 16	22.9°C	23.3°C
Mar 17	22.9°C	23.3°C
Mar 18	21.3°C	23.3°C
Mar 19	21.3°C	23.3°C
Mar 20	21.3°C	23.3°C	21.3°C
Mar 21		23.3°C	21.6°C
Mar 22		23.3°C	21.8°C
Mar 23		23.3°C	22.1°C
Mar 24		23.3°C	22.3°C
Mar 25		23.3°C	22.6°C
Mar 26		23.3°C	22.8°C
Mar 27		23.3°C	23.1°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	24°C	27°C	28°C
February	25°C	26°C	27°C
March	20°C	23°C	26°C
April	15°C	18°C	22°C
May	11°C	14°C	16°C
June	9°C	10°C	13°C
July	9°C	10°C	11°C
August	10°C	12°C	15°C
September	13°C	15°C	17°C
October	16°C	19°C	21°C
November	20°C	23°C	25°C
December	24°C	25°C	27°C

The Murray River stretches across south-eastern Australia and runs through a mix of warm inland plains and cooler southern regions, so water temperatures change noticeably through the year. In summer, from December to February, the river commonly sits between about 22 °C and 26 °C, with some shallow sections warming a bit more during heatwaves. Autumn brings a gradual drop into the 16–20 °C range, while winter temperatures are much cooler, often around 10–14 °C. In spring, the water slowly warms again, usually reaching 15–20 °C by late October or November, depending on local weather and flow conditions.

Swimming Conditions

Swimming in the Murray River is generally allowed and quite popular in many towns and camping areas, especially during the hotter months when the water offers welcome relief from the heat. However, conditions can vary a lot along its long course. Currents may be stronger after rain or water releases, and some sections have cold inflows from dams or irrigation channels. Water quality is usually suitable for recreation, but algae blooms can occur in warmer periods, and locals keep an eye on advisories. With sensible precautions and local knowledge, the Murray is widely used for swimming, paddling, and cooling off on a hot Aussie day.

Nearby Rivers

Goulburn River

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current water temperature in Murray River?

The water temperature in Murray River today is 21°C.

What is the water temperature in Murray River during the summer months?

In summer, water temperatures in Murray River typically range from 24°C to 28°C.

Is it possible to swim in Murray River (New South Wales)?

Yes — many parts of Murray River in New South Wales are perfectly swimmable in summer when water temperatures are pleasant, though conditions vary a lot by location and season. Always check local signage and council advisories for water quality (including blue‑green algae), strong currents, submerged snags and changed flows after rain, and consider a wetsuit in cooler months or remote spots where there are no lifeguards.