Paroo River – current river water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current river water temperature at Paroo 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
The water temperature in Paroo River today is 18°C.
Water Temperature in Paroo River: 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 Paroo River 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 Paroo River will be 15.2°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apr 28 | 19.5°C | 16.0°C | |
| Apr 29 | 19.5°C | 16.0°C | |
| Apr 30 | 18.6°C | 16.0°C | |
| May 1 | 18.1°C | 16.0°C | |
| May 2 | 19.0°C | 16.0°C | |
| May 3 | 18.9°C | 16.0°C | |
| May 4 | 18.8°C | 16.0°C | |
| May 5 | 18.8°C | 16.0°C | |
| May 6 | 17.6°C | 16.0°C | 17.6°C |
| May 7 | 16.0°C | 17.3°C | |
| May 8 | 16.0°C | 16.9°C | |
| May 9 | 16.0°C | 16.6°C | |
| May 10 | 16.0°C | 16.3°C | |
| May 11 | 16.0°C | 15.9°C | |
| May 12 | 16.0°C | 15.6°C | |
| May 13 | 16.0°C | 15.2°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 | 26°C | 29°C | 31°C |
| February | 25°C | 28°C | 30°C |
| March | 23°C | 26°C | 29°C |
| April | 18°C | 21°C | 24°C |
| May | 13°C | 16°C | 19°C |
| June | 10°C | 13°C | 16°C |
| July | 10°C | 12°C | 17°C |
| August | 12°C | 15°C | 18°C |
| September | 14°C | 18°C | 21°C |
| October | 18°C | 22°C | 26°C |
| November | 20°C | 24°C | 28°C |
| December | 24°C | 28°C | 31°C |
Location & Local Information
Source Mariala National Park
• location west of Augathella, Queensland
• coordinates 26°07′56″S 145°10′39″E
• elevation 336 m (1,102 ft)
Mouth confluence with the Darling River in wetter seasons
• location north of White Cliffs, New South Wales
• coordinates 31°33′30″S 143°27′08″E
• elevation 94 m (308 ft)
Length 1,210 km (750 mi)
The Paroo River is one of the few free-flowing rivers left in the Murray–Darling Basin, running through remote country in south-west Queensland and north-west New South Wales. Its water temperature is closely tied to the harsh inland climate and the river’s highly variable flows. In summer, from December to February, water in permanent waterholes commonly reaches around 25–32°C, and in shallow edges it can feel almost hot during extended heatwaves. Spring and autumn are more moderate, with temperatures usually sitting between 18–25°C when there’s water about. Winter is cooler but still manageable, with water temperatures generally around 12–16°C, especially in deeper holes that hold water year-round. After floods, fresh inflows can temporarily cool the river before it warms again.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in the Paroo River is generally allowed, but it’s very much an outback, common-sense affair. Most swimming happens in well-known permanent waterholes rather than along flowing channels. In summer, the warm water can be a welcome relief from extreme heat, and locals and travellers often enjoy a dip late in the day. However, conditions can change quickly. Water quality may decline during long dry periods, algae can occur, and banks can be steep or muddy. There’s also submerged timber and wildlife to be mindful of. With local advice and careful choice of spot and timing, swimming can be enjoyable, but caution is always part of the Paroo experience.