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 10°C.
Water Temperature in Snowy River: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
❌ River water below 10°C is very cold and generally unsuitable for swimming for most people. Even on a warm day, rivers at this temperature can quickly cause cold shock and numbness due to flowing water and shaded banks. Swimming is usually limited to brief cold dips or experienced cold-water swimmers. Overcast weather or cool air temperatures make river swimming especially uncomfortable and potentially unsafe.
Water Temperature Over the Last 30 Days
Water temperatures in Snowy River 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 Snowy River will be 6.9°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 | 11.0°C | 6.5°C | |
| Aug 16 | 11.0°C | 6.5°C | |
| Aug 17 | 9.4°C | 6.5°C | |
| Aug 18 | 9.3°C | 6.5°C | |
| Aug 19 | 9.4°C | 6.5°C | |
| Aug 20 | 9.6°C | 6.5°C | |
| Aug 21 | 9.6°C | 6.5°C | |
| Aug 22 | 9.8°C | 6.5°C | |
| Aug 23 | 9.9°C | 6.5°C | 9.9°C |
| Aug 24 | 6.5°C | 9.5°C | |
| Aug 25 | 6.5°C | 9.1°C | |
| Aug 26 | 6.5°C | 8.6°C | |
| Aug 27 | 6.5°C | 8.2°C | |
| Aug 28 | 6.5°C | 7.8°C | |
| Aug 29 | 6.5°C | 7.4°C | |
| Aug 30 | 6.5°C | 6.9°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 | 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.