Rockhampton – water temperature at Fitzroy River Queensland
This page provides up-to-date information about the water temperature at Rockhampton, located on the Fitzroy River Queensland in Queensland. 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 Fitzroy River Queensland at Rockhampton today is 20°C.
Water Temperature in Fitzroy River Queensland at Rockhampton: 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
Over the past 30 days, water temperatures in Rockhampton have generally increased, although a slight cooling trend has set in over the last week.
According to our forecast, the water temperature in Rockhampton will be 18.9°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 | 20.4°C | 18.8°C | |
| Aug 16 | 20.5°C | 18.8°C | |
| Aug 17 | 19.6°C | 18.8°C | |
| Aug 18 | 19.7°C | 18.8°C | |
| Aug 19 | 19.6°C | 18.8°C | |
| Aug 20 | 19.3°C | 18.8°C | |
| Aug 21 | 19.7°C | 18.8°C | |
| Aug 22 | 19.3°C | 18.8°C | |
| Aug 23 | 19.5°C | 18.8°C | 19.5°C |
| Aug 24 | 18.8°C | 19.4°C | |
| Aug 25 | 18.8°C | 19.3°C | |
| Aug 26 | 18.8°C | 19.2°C | |
| Aug 27 | 18.8°C | 19.2°C | |
| Aug 28 | 18.8°C | 19.1°C | |
| Aug 29 | 18.8°C | 19.0°C | |
| Aug 30 | 18.8°C | 18.9°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 | 24°C | 28°C | 31°C |
| February | 19°C | 28°C | 31°C |
| March | 18°C | 27°C | 30°C |
| April | 21°C | 25°C | 30°C |
| May | 17°C | 20°C | 27°C |
| June | 13°C | 17°C | 21°C |
| July | 15°C | 18°C | 22°C |
| August | 13°C | 19°C | 23°C |
| September | 16°C | 22°C | 25°C |
| October | 20°C | 25°C | 30°C |
| November | 20°C | 27°C | 30°C |
| December | 22°C | 27°C | 32°C |
Location & Local Information
Rockhampton sits right on the banks of the Fitzroy River, and the river’s water temperature reflects the warm subtropical climate of central Queensland. In summer, from December to February, water temperatures around town are usually in the range of about 24–28°C, sometimes feeling warmer in slower sections during extended hot weather. Spring and autumn are more moderate, with the river typically sitting between 20–25°C. Winter brings the coolest conditions, but even then the water rarely feels cold, generally hovering around 16–20°C, particularly in deeper parts of the channel where temperatures change more slowly. Rainfall upstream can affect both temperature and clarity, especially after summer storms.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in the Fitzroy River at Rockhampton is technically allowed, but it’s generally not recommended. While the water temperature can be quite comfortable for swimming, especially in summer, the river poses significant safety risks. Strong tidal influence, poor visibility, sudden depth changes and floating debris are common. Most importantly, the lower Fitzroy is well-known crocodile habitat, and saltwater crocodiles are regularly present in and around Rockhampton. Because of this, locals tend to avoid swimming in the river and instead use nearby beaches, creeks or public pools. In Rockhampton, the Fitzroy is best enjoyed from the riverbank or by boat rather than as a swimming spot.