Penrith – water temperature at Hawkesbury River
This page provides up-to-date information about the water temperature at Penrith, located on the Hawkesbury 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 Hawkesbury River at Penrith today is 22°C.
Water Temperature in Hawkesbury River at Penrith: 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
Water temperatures in Penrith 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 Penrith will be 23.2°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mar 12 | 22.2°C | 23.3°C | |
| Mar 13 | 22.2°C | 23.3°C | |
| Mar 14 | 22.1°C | 23.3°C | |
| Mar 15 | 20.0°C | 23.3°C | |
| Mar 16 | 20.0°C | 23.3°C | |
| Mar 17 | 21.8°C | 23.3°C | |
| Mar 18 | 21.8°C | 23.3°C | |
| Mar 19 | 21.6°C | 23.3°C | |
| Mar 20 | 21.5°C | 23.3°C | 21.5°C |
| Mar 21 | 23.3°C | 21.7°C | |
| Mar 22 | 23.3°C | 22.0°C | |
| Mar 23 | 23.3°C | 22.2°C | |
| Mar 24 | 23.3°C | 22.5°C | |
| Mar 25 | 23.3°C | 22.7°C | |
| Mar 26 | 23.3°C | 22.9°C | |
| Mar 27 | 23.3°C | 23.2°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 | 22°C | 26°C | 29°C |
| February | 23°C | 25°C | 27°C |
| March | 20°C | 23°C | 26°C |
| April | 12°C | 20°C | 23°C |
| May | 12°C | 16°C | 20°C |
| June | 10°C | 13°C | 15°C |
| July | 9°C | 11°C | 14°C |
| August | 10°C | 13°C | 16°C |
| September | 13°C | 17°C | 19°C |
| October | 17°C | 21°C | 26°C |
| November | 16°C | 23°C | 27°C |
| December | 21°C | 24°C | 27°C |
Location & Local Information
Penrith is a cracker of a spot at the foot of the Blue Mountains, and the Nepean River—which is actually part of the upper Hawkesbury system—is the pride and joy of the local area. If you’re looking to get your hair wet, you’ll find the water temperature is pretty spot on for a summer cool-down, usually averaging between 23°C and 26°C when the sun is blazing. In the middle of winter, though, it’s a whole different story; the river can get properly fresh, dropping down to a brisk 12°C or 15°C. It’s the kind of water that’ll wake you up faster than a double-shot espresso, so most folks tend to wait for the warmer months before diving in head-first.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming is definitely allowed and is a popular pastime at spots like Tench Reserve or the sandy little beach at the junction with Euroka Creek. It’s a ripper of a place to escape the western Sydney heat, but you’ve got to keep your wits about you. The water quality can be a bit hit-and-miss, especially after a heavy downpour, so the general rule is to give it a miss for at least three days after a big rain to let the runoff clear. There aren't any crocs to worry about down this way, but you should still watch out for submerged logs and keep an eye on the currents if the river is running high. If the river's looking a bit murky, you can always head over to the new Penrith Beach for a safer, patrolled soak.