Orange – water temperature and nearby swimming conditions
This page covers water temperature conditions in and around Orange in New South Wales. You can check current water temperatures, review recent trends, explore typical monthly ranges, and compare today’s values with historical averages for this date. The page also includes a 7-day water temperature forecast, nearby swimming locations, and local weather conditions.
Current Water Temperature
The water temperature in Orange today is 17°C.
Water Temperature in Orange: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ A river temperature of 15 to 20°C is generally considered cool to comfortable for swimming in Australia. On warm, calm days, this range allows for relaxed swimming and longer time in the water. Comfort depends heavily on air temperature and sunshine, as cooler weather can still make the water feel chilly. This range is popular for river swimming during spring and early autumn.
Water Temperature Over the Last 30 Days
Water temperatures in Orange 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 Orange will be 16.0°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oct 7 | 16.0°C | 16.5°C | |
| Oct 8 | 16.2°C | 16.5°C | |
| Oct 9 | 16.5°C | 16.5°C | |
| Oct 10 | 15.6°C | 16.5°C | |
| Oct 11 | 15.2°C | 16.5°C | |
| Oct 12 | 16.5°C | 16.5°C | |
| Oct 13 | 16.2°C | 16.5°C | |
| Oct 14 | 15.9°C | 16.5°C | |
| Oct 15 | 17.1°C | 16.5°C | 17.1°C |
| Oct 16 | 16.5°C | 16.9°C | |
| Oct 17 | 16.5°C | 16.8°C | |
| Oct 18 | 16.5°C | 16.6°C | |
| Oct 19 | 16.5°C | 16.5°C | |
| Oct 20 | 16.5°C | 16.3°C | |
| Oct 21 | 16.5°C | 16.1°C | |
| Oct 22 | 16.5°C | 16.0°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 | 28°C |
| February | 20°C | 23°C | 26°C |
| March | 17°C | 21°C | 23°C |
| April | 13°C | 17°C | 21°C |
| May | 8°C | 12°C | 16°C |
| June | 7°C | 10°C | 12°C |
| July | 7°C | 8°C | 10°C |
| August | 8°C | 9°C | 12°C |
| September | 10°C | 13°C | 17°C |
| October | 12°C | 17°C | 22°C |
| November | 15°C | 20°C | 25°C |
| December | 18°C | 22°C | 27°C |
Location & Local Information
Orange sits high on the Central Tablelands, and that elevation has a strong influence on water temperatures in local lakes, creeks, and rivers. Compared with much of inland NSW, the water here stays cooler year-round. In summer, lakes and slower-moving waterways typically reach around 18–22°C, which feels refreshing rather than warm, even during heatwaves. Spring and autumn usually sit between 14–18°C, while winter brings a noticeable chill, with water temperatures often dropping to about 8–12°C. Shaded banks, steady flows, and cool nights help keep temperatures down across all seasons.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming around Orange is generally allowed in designated lakes and managed recreational areas, but it tends to be seasonal and weather-dependent. Summer is the main time locals head into the water, choosing calm, accessible spots where conditions are monitored and water quality is more reliable. Natural creeks and rivers are less commonly used for swimming due to cooler temperatures, variable depth, and changes in clarity after rain. Following heavy rainfall, runoff can make the water colder and murkier, so swimming is usually avoided. Overall, Orange offers limited but refreshing inland swimming opportunities, best suited to short summer dips rather than long, relaxed swims, reflecting the region’s cooler highland climate.