Snowy River – current river water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current river water temperature at Snowy 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 Snowy River today is 12°C.
Water Temperature in Snowy River: 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 Snowy 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 Snowy River will be 8.5°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 | 13.3°C | 8.5°C | |
| Apr 29 | 13.0°C | 8.5°C | |
| Apr 30 | 12.7°C | 8.5°C | |
| May 1 | 12.5°C | 8.5°C | |
| May 2 | 12.6°C | 8.5°C | |
| May 3 | 12.4°C | 8.5°C | |
| May 4 | 13.1°C | 8.5°C | |
| May 5 | 13.1°C | 8.5°C | |
| May 6 | 12.4°C | 8.5°C | 12.4°C |
| May 7 | 8.5°C | 11.8°C | |
| May 8 | 8.5°C | 11.3°C | |
| May 9 | 8.5°C | 10.7°C | |
| May 10 | 8.5°C | 10.2°C | |
| May 11 | 8.5°C | 9.6°C | |
| May 12 | 8.5°C | 9.0°C | |
| May 13 | 8.5°C | 8.5°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 | 15°C | 20°C | 26°C |
| February | 14°C | 19°C | 25°C |
| March | 9°C | 17°C | 24°C |
| April | 7°C | 13°C | 19°C |
| May | 5°C | 9°C | 14°C |
| June | 3°C | 6°C | 9°C |
| July | 2°C | 5°C | 8°C |
| August | 4°C | 7°C | 11°C |
| September | 7°C | 10°C | 15°C |
| October | 9°C | 13°C | 19°C |
| November | 10°C | 16°C | 22°C |
| December | 12°C | 18°C | 24°C |
Snowy River: Water Temperature by Location
Location & Local Information
Source Australian Alps, Great Dividing Range
• location below Mount Stilwell, New South Wales
• elevation 2,200 m (7,200 ft)
Mouth Bass Strait
• location Marlo, Victoria
• coordinates 37°47′S 148°31′E
• elevation 0 m (0 ft)
Length 352 km (219 mi)
The Snowy River runs from the Australian Alps down to the coast, and its water temperature reflects its alpine origins. This is a cold river by most standards. In summer, from December to February, water temperatures usually sit around 14–18°C, occasionally reaching close to 20°C in slower, sun-exposed sections during hot spells. Spring and autumn are cooler, typically in the 10–15°C range, while winter brings very cold conditions, often around 5–8°C, especially upstream. Releases from alpine storages can keep the water cooler than the air temperature suggests, even in mid-summer.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in the Snowy River is generally allowed, but it’s best described as invigorating rather than relaxing. In summer, some people do swim, particularly in calmer pools and wider sections downstream, but the water remains cool and most swims are short. The river is usually clear and clean, which makes it appealing despite the low temperature. However, cold shock is a real consideration, especially for those not used to alpine rivers. Currents can also be stronger than they appear, and rocky beds and sudden depth changes are common. With sensible spot selection and warm weather, swimming can be enjoyable, but the Snowy always demands respect due to its cold water.