Raymond Terrace – water temperature at Hunter River
This page provides up-to-date information about the water temperature at Raymond Terrace, located on the Hunter 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 Hunter River at Raymond Terrace today is 14°C.
Water Temperature in Hunter River at Raymond Terrace: 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 Raymond Terrace 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 Raymond Terrace will be 14.0°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aug 15 | 13.7°C | 14.0°C | |
| Aug 16 | 14.0°C | 14.0°C | |
| Aug 17 | 13.6°C | 14.0°C | |
| Aug 18 | 13.7°C | 14.0°C | |
| Aug 19 | 13.6°C | 14.0°C | |
| Aug 20 | 13.8°C | 14.0°C | |
| Aug 21 | 14.0°C | 14.0°C | |
| Aug 22 | 14.1°C | 14.0°C | |
| Aug 23 | 14.2°C | 14.0°C | 14.2°C |
| Aug 24 | 14.0°C | 14.2°C | |
| Aug 25 | 14.0°C | 14.2°C | |
| Aug 26 | 14.0°C | 14.1°C | |
| Aug 27 | 14.0°C | 14.1°C | |
| Aug 28 | 14.0°C | 14.1°C | |
| Aug 29 | 14.0°C | 14.1°C | |
| Aug 30 | 14.0°C | 14.0°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 | 26°C | 27°C | 28°C |
| February | 18°C | 26°C | 28°C |
| March | 23°C | 25°C | 27°C |
| April | 19°C | 21°C | 23°C |
| May | 14°C | 17°C | 19°C |
| June | 12°C | 13°C | 15°C |
| July | 12°C | 13°C | 14°C |
| August | 13°C | 14°C | 16°C |
| September | 16°C | 18°C | 19°C |
| October | 19°C | 21°C | 23°C |
| November | 22°C | 24°C | 25°C |
| December | 25°C | 26°C | 27°C |
Location & Local Information
Raymond Terrace sits on a wide, tidal stretch of the Hunter River, where the river slows and broadens as it heads toward the coast. Water temperature here follows the temperate coastal climate of the lower Hunter. In summer, from December to February, the river around Raymond Terrace is usually around 20–24°C, sometimes feeling a little warmer in sheltered backwaters during hot, still days. Spring and autumn are mild, with water temperatures generally in the 16–20°C range. Winter is cooler but not extreme, typically around 13–16°C, especially when cooler tidal water moves upstream. Rainfall upstream can also influence temperature and clarity for short periods.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in the Hunter River at Raymond Terrace is technically allowed, but it’s not especially common. While summer water temperatures can be comfortable, the river here is tidal and fairly busy, with changing currents, boat traffic and variable visibility. After heavy rain, flows can increase and debris can be present, making swimming less appealing. Water quality can also vary, particularly closer to urban areas. For these reasons, most locals tend to avoid swimming in the main river and instead choose nearby beaches, lakes or designated swimming areas. Around Raymond Terrace, the Hunter is better enjoyed for fishing, boating and riverside recreation rather than as a regular swimming spot.