Norman River – current river water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current river water temperature at Norman River in Queensland. 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 Norman River today is 22°C.
Water Temperature in Norman 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
Over the past 30 days, water temperatures in Norman River have generally increased, although a slight cooling trend has set in over the last week.
According to our forecast, the water temperature in Norman River will be 21.3°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aug 15 | 22.6°C | 21.0°C | |
| Aug 16 | 23.0°C | 21.0°C | |
| Aug 17 | 22.2°C | 21.0°C | |
| Aug 18 | 22.3°C | 21.0°C | |
| Aug 19 | 22.5°C | 21.0°C | |
| Aug 20 | 22.2°C | 21.0°C | |
| Aug 21 | 21.6°C | 21.0°C | |
| Aug 22 | 21.5°C | 21.0°C | |
| Aug 23 | 21.7°C | 21.0°C | 21.7°C |
| Aug 24 | 21.0°C | 21.6°C | |
| Aug 25 | 21.0°C | 21.6°C | |
| Aug 26 | 21.0°C | 21.5°C | |
| Aug 27 | 21.0°C | 21.5°C | |
| Aug 28 | 21.0°C | 21.4°C | |
| Aug 29 | 21.0°C | 21.3°C | |
| Aug 30 | 21.0°C | 21.3°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 | 28°C | 29°C | 31°C |
| February | 28°C | 29°C | 31°C |
| March | 27°C | 29°C | 31°C |
| April | 23°C | 26°C | 29°C |
| May | 19°C | 22°C | 25°C |
| June | 17°C | 19°C | 23°C |
| July | 16°C | 20°C | 23°C |
| August | 18°C | 21°C | 23°C |
| September | 20°C | 24°C | 32°C |
| October | 24°C | 29°C | 33°C |
| November | 23°C | 27°C | 32°C |
| December | 24°C | 28°C | 31°C |
Norman River: Water Temperature by Location
Normanton
Location & Local Information
Source Gregory Range
Mouth Gulf of Carpentaria
• location Karumba
Length 420 km (260 mi)
The Norman River flows through the Gulf Country of far north-west Queensland, and its water temperature reflects the hot, tropical savannah climate. During the Wet Season, roughly from December to March, water temperatures are usually warm, commonly sitting around 26–32°C. Heavy monsoonal rain and flooding can briefly cool the river, but once flows slow, the water warms quickly again. In the Dry Season, from about May to September, conditions are more stable and water temperatures generally range between 22–28°C. Even in winter, the river rarely feels cold, particularly in deeper pools that hold water throughout the year. Seasonal flow levels have a bigger impact on swimming conditions than temperature alone.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in the Norman River is generally allowed, but it comes with important cautions. In the Dry Season, when the river is calm and clear, people may swim in permanent waterholes, and the warm water makes it comfortable for a proper dip. However, this is crocodile country. Saltwater crocodiles are known to inhabit the Norman, especially in the lower reaches and after wet seasons when they move further inland. Water quality can also decline late in the dry season, and banks may be muddy or unstable. Because of these risks, swimming is best done only with local knowledge and advice, making it a careful choice rather than a casual activity.