Tamar River – current river water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current river water temperature at Tamar River in Tasmania. 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 Tamar River today is 11°C.
Water Temperature in Tamar 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 Tamar 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 Tamar River will be 8.6°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 | 12.2°C | 8.3°C | |
| Apr 29 | 12.1°C | 8.3°C | |
| Apr 30 | 12.0°C | 8.3°C | |
| May 1 | 12.0°C | 8.3°C | |
| May 2 | 11.0°C | 8.3°C | |
| May 3 | 11.0°C | 8.3°C | |
| May 4 | 11.0°C | 8.3°C | |
| May 5 | 11.0°C | 8.3°C | |
| May 6 | 11.0°C | 8.3°C | 11.0°C |
| May 7 | 8.3°C | 10.7°C | |
| May 8 | 8.3°C | 10.3°C | |
| May 9 | 8.3°C | 10.0°C | |
| May 10 | 8.3°C | 9.7°C | |
| May 11 | 8.3°C | 9.3°C | |
| May 12 | 8.3°C | 9.0°C | |
| May 13 | 8.3°C | 8.6°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 | 17°C | 20°C | 22°C |
| February | 17°C | 19°C | 21°C |
| March | 14°C | 17°C | 19°C |
| April | 10°C | 12°C | 15°C |
| May | 6°C | 8°C | 11°C |
| June | 5°C | 6°C | 8°C |
| July | 5°C | 6°C | 8°C |
| August | 6°C | 8°C | 10°C |
| September | 8°C | 10°C | 12°C |
| October | 10°C | 13°C | 17°C |
| November | 14°C | 16°C | 19°C |
| December | 16°C | 18°C | 21°C |
Tamar River: Water Temperature by Location
🔗 Launceston
🔗 Beauty Point
Location & Local Information
Source confluence South and North Esk Rivers
• location Launceston
• coordinates 41°26′4″S 147°7′38″E
Mouth Port Dalrymple, Bass Strait
• location Low Head
• coordinates 41°3′19″S 146°46′28″E
• elevation 0 m (0 ft)
Length 70 km (43 mi)
The Tamar River, or kanamaluka, is a massive tidal estuary in Northern Tasmania that brings a slice of the ocean right up to the heart of Launceston. Being way down south in Tassie, the water temperature is definitely on the invigorating side. During the height of summer, you’re looking at temperatures peaking between 17°C and 19°C, though some of the shallower, sun-drenched bays might creep up a tad higher. In the winter, the mercury takes a proper dive, often sitting between 10°C and 13°C. It’s the kind of fresh that’ll give you a real wake-up call, so most folks tend to keep their toes dry or opt for a thick steamer if they’re heading out for a paddle.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming is technically allowed and can be a ripper experience at spots like Gravelly Beach or the sandy reaches near Beauty Point and Greens Beach. However, you’ve got to use your noggin because the Tamar is a complex beast. The upper reaches near Launceston often struggle with water quality issues, especially after a heavy downpour when the old combined drainage system can overflow, so the local council generally reckons you should steer clear for at least three days after rain. Most of the locals prefer a dip in the First Basin at Cataract Gorge for a freshwater soak, but if you stick to the clearer, more marine-influenced waters closer to the river mouth at Low Head, it’s a legendary spot to cool off on a rare Tassie stinker.