Murrumbidgee River – current river water temperature and swimming conditions

This page shows the current river water temperature at Murrumbidgee 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

11.7°C

Today

11.6°C

Yesterday

10.7°C

A Week Ago

The water temperature in Murrumbidgee River today is 12°C.

Water Temperature in Murrumbidgee 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 Murrumbidgee River have been on a steady rise over the past month and have continued to climb over the last week.

According to our forecast, the water temperature in Murrumbidgee River will be 11.4°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 14	10.9°C	11.3°C
Aug 15	11.0°C	11.3°C
Aug 16	10.7°C	11.3°C
Aug 17	10.6°C	11.3°C
Aug 18	10.6°C	11.3°C
Aug 19	10.6°C	11.3°C
Aug 20	11.5°C	11.3°C
Aug 21	11.6°C	11.3°C
Aug 22	11.7°C	11.3°C	11.7°C
Aug 23		11.3°C	11.7°C
Aug 24		11.3°C	11.6°C
Aug 25		11.3°C	11.6°C
Aug 26		11.3°C	11.5°C
Aug 27		11.3°C	11.5°C
Aug 28		11.3°C	11.4°C
Aug 29		11.3°C	11.4°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	24°C	26°C
February	23°C	24°C	26°C
March	20°C	22°C	25°C
April	15°C	18°C	21°C
May	11°C	13°C	16°C
June	7°C	10°C	12°C
July	8°C	9°C	10°C
August	8°C	11°C	14°C
September	12°C	14°C	16°C
October	16°C	18°C	20°C
November	18°C	21°C	24°C
December	22°C	24°C	25°C

10.9°C

Location & Local Information

Source Peppercorn Hill
• location Snowy Mountains, NSW
• coordinates 35°35′7″S 148°36′5″E
• elevation 1,560 m (5,120 ft)
Mouth confluence with Murray River
• location near Boundary Bend, NSW/Vic
• coordinates 34°43′43″S 143°13′8″E
• elevation 55 m (180 ft)
Length 1,485 km (923 mi)

The Murrumbidgee River runs through a big slice of southern New South Wales and is a major inland waterway, shaped by both natural flows and upstream dams. Water temperature here changes a fair bit across the year. In summer, especially from December to February, temperatures commonly sit around 20–25°C, and in slower or shallower sections they can creep a little higher during heatwaves. Spring and autumn are more moderate, usually in the 15–20°C range, while winter water temperatures often drop to about 8–12°C, feeling quite brisk even on a sunny day. Releases from dams can sometimes keep the water cooler than you’d expect for the air temperature, particularly upstream.

Swimming Conditions

Swimming in the Murrumbidgee is generally allowed and quite popular in many local spots, especially around towns and established river beaches. In summer, the water temperature is usually comfortable enough for a proper swim, not just a quick dip. That said, conditions can vary a lot from place to place. Strong currents, sudden drop-offs, cold releases from dams and submerged snags mean it’s important to choose known, calmer areas and avoid swimming after heavy rain. With a bit of local knowledge and common sense, the Murrumbidgee offers plenty of opportunities to cool off during the warmer months.

Nearby Rivers

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current water temperature in Murrumbidgee River?

The water temperature in Murrumbidgee River today is 12°C.

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

In summer, water temperatures in Murrumbidgee River typically range from 22°C to 26°C.

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

Yes — many stretches of the Murrumbidgee River in NSW are swimmable, especially in summer, but conditions vary a lot by location, season and recent rainfall. Always check local council and NSW Health water‑quality advisories, obey signs and be aware of hazards like strong currents, submerged debris, blue‑green algae and potentially very cold water even on warm days.