Sydney – water temperature at Parramatta River
This page provides up-to-date information about the water temperature at Sydney, located on the Parramatta 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 Parramatta River at Sydney today is 12°C.
Water Temperature in Parramatta River at Sydney: 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 Sydney 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 Sydney will be 11.7°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jun 13 | 12.7°C | 11.7°C | |
| Jun 14 | 12.7°C | 11.7°C | |
| Jun 15 | 12.6°C | 11.7°C | |
| Jun 16 | 12.5°C | 11.7°C | |
| Jun 17 | 12.4°C | 11.7°C | |
| Jun 18 | 12.4°C | 11.7°C | |
| Jun 19 | 12.3°C | 11.7°C | |
| Jun 20 | 12.1°C | 11.7°C | |
| Jun 21 | 12.0°C | 11.7°C | 12.0°C |
| Jun 22 | 11.7°C | 12.0°C | |
| Jun 23 | 11.7°C | 11.9°C | |
| Jun 24 | 11.7°C | 11.9°C | |
| Jun 25 | 11.7°C | 11.9°C | |
| Jun 26 | 11.7°C | 11.8°C | |
| Jun 27 | 11.7°C | 11.8°C | |
| Jun 28 | 11.7°C | 11.7°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 | 24°C | 27°C |
| February | 21°C | 24°C | 27°C |
| March | 20°C | 22°C | 24°C |
| April | 16°C | 18°C | 21°C |
| May | 11°C | 14°C | 17°C |
| June | 10°C | 12°C | 13°C |
| July | 9°C | 11°C | 13°C |
| August | 10°C | 12°C | 14°C |
| September | 12°C | 15°C | 18°C |
| October | 16°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| November | 18°C | 21°C | 25°C |
| December | 13°C | 24°C | 26°C |
Location & Local Information
Sydney sits around a wide network of waterways, and the Parramatta River is one of the city’s most important tidal rivers, flowing through the inner suburbs into Sydney Harbour. Water temperatures in the river are generally more stable than the open Tasman Sea and often feel slightly warmer, especially in sheltered bays. In summer, river temperatures typically range from about 22–26 °C, and can feel warmer in shallow areas on calm days. Autumn sees a gradual cooling to roughly 20–23 °C. Winter is cooler but still manageable for many swimmers, with temperatures usually around 16–20 °C, while spring brings a steady rise from about 18 °C into the low twenties as air temperatures improve.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in the Parramatta River is allowed in designated areas and has become increasingly popular as water quality has improved over recent years. Purpose-built swimming spots and harbourside baths provide safer options away from boat traffic and stronger tidal flows. Unlike ocean beaches, there are no waves, which makes the experience calmer and more relaxed. However, conditions can vary with rainfall, tides, and local activity, so swimming is best done at approved locations. When conditions are right, the Parramatta River offers a surprisingly pleasant and accessible swimming option right in the heart of Sydney.