Nowra – water temperature at Shoalhaven River
This page provides up-to-date information about the water temperature at Nowra, located on the Shoalhaven River in New South Wales. Here you can check current conditions, view recent temperature trends, explore typical monthly ranges, and compare today’s reading with historical averages for this date. The page also includes a 7-day water temperature forecast, local weather information, and swimming conditions.
Current Water Temperature
The water temperature in Shoalhaven River at Nowra today is 13°C.
Water Temperature in Shoalhaven River at Nowra: 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 Nowra 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 Nowra will be 12.6°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jun 13 | 13.0°C | 12.5°C | |
| Jun 14 | 12.9°C | 12.5°C | |
| Jun 15 | 13.1°C | 12.5°C | |
| Jun 16 | 13.0°C | 12.5°C | |
| Jun 17 | 13.1°C | 12.5°C | |
| Jun 18 | 13.0°C | 12.5°C | |
| Jun 19 | 12.9°C | 12.5°C | |
| Jun 20 | 13.2°C | 12.5°C | |
| Jun 21 | 13.0°C | 12.5°C | 13.0°C |
| Jun 22 | 12.5°C | 12.9°C | |
| Jun 23 | 12.5°C | 12.9°C | |
| Jun 24 | 12.5°C | 12.8°C | |
| Jun 25 | 12.5°C | 12.8°C | |
| Jun 26 | 12.5°C | 12.7°C | |
| Jun 27 | 12.5°C | 12.6°C | |
| Jun 28 | 12.5°C | 12.6°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 | 20°C | 24°C | 27°C |
| February | 19°C | 23°C | 28°C |
| March | 17°C | 21°C | 25°C |
| April | 14°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| May | 11°C | 15°C | 20°C |
| June | 9°C | 13°C | 16°C |
| July | 8°C | 11°C | 13°C |
| August | 10°C | 12°C | 14°C |
| September | 12°C | 15°C | 18°C |
| October | 15°C | 18°C | 22°C |
| November | 18°C | 20°C | 24°C |
| December | 20°C | 23°C | 26°C |
Location & Local Information
Nowra sits along the broad, tidal stretch of the Shoalhaven River, where inland flows meet coastal conditions from the NSW South Coast. Water temperature here changes steadily through the year. In summer, from December to February, the river around Nowra is usually a comfortable 20–24°C, sometimes edging a bit warmer in slow-moving sections during hot spells. Spring and autumn are mild, with water temperatures generally sitting between 16–20°C. Winter is cooler but not harsh, typically around 12–15°C, especially after cold nights or when freshwater flows dominate. Tides and rainfall can cause short-term shifts in how warm the water feels from day to day.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in the Shoalhaven River at Nowra is allowed and fairly common in summer, particularly when coastal winds make the beaches less appealing. The water temperature during the warmer months is usually pleasant enough for a proper swim, not just a quick splash. Locals tend to use familiar river access points and calmer stretches where currents are manageable. Being a tidal river, conditions can change quickly, and boat traffic is something to watch for. After heavy rain, visibility can drop and flows can increase. With settled weather and sensible spot choice, the river offers a relaxed and refreshing swimming option around Nowra.