Tambo River – current river water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current river water temperature at Tambo River in Victoria. 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 Tambo River today is 11°C.
Water Temperature in Tambo 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 Tambo 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 Tambo River will be 9.9°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 | 12.0°C | 9.7°C | |
| Aug 16 | 12.0°C | 9.7°C | |
| Aug 17 | 9.7°C | 9.7°C | |
| Aug 18 | 9.8°C | 9.7°C | |
| Aug 19 | 10.1°C | 9.7°C | |
| Aug 20 | 10.2°C | 9.7°C | |
| Aug 21 | 10.2°C | 9.7°C | |
| Aug 22 | 10.4°C | 9.7°C | |
| Aug 23 | 10.6°C | 9.7°C | 10.6°C |
| Aug 24 | 9.7°C | 10.5°C | |
| Aug 25 | 9.7°C | 10.4°C | |
| Aug 26 | 9.7°C | 10.3°C | |
| Aug 27 | 9.7°C | 10.2°C | |
| Aug 28 | 9.7°C | 10.1°C | |
| Aug 29 | 9.7°C | 10.0°C | |
| Aug 30 | 9.7°C | 9.9°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 | 22°C | 24°C |
| February | 18°C | 22°C | 23°C |
| March | 12°C | 19°C | 23°C |
| April | 2°C | 15°C | 19°C |
| May | 4°C | 11°C | 16°C |
| June | 5°C | 9°C | 15°C |
| July | 4°C | 8°C | 11°C |
| August | 8°C | 10°C | 12°C |
| September | 10°C | 13°C | 15°C |
| October | 9°C | 17°C | 19°C |
| November | 15°C | 19°C | 21°C |
| December | 15°C | 21°C | 23°C |
Tambo River: Water Temperature by Location
Swifts Creek
Ensay
Johnsonville
Bruthen
Swan Reach
Location & Local Information
Source Mount Leinster, Bowen Mountains, Great Dividing Range
• location Victorian Alps
• coordinates 36°57′S 147°54′E
• elevation 1,060 m (3,480 ft)
Mouth Lake King to form confluence with the Mitchell River
• location near Metung
• coordinates 37°51′26″S 147°48′40″E
• elevation 0 m (0 ft)
Length 186 km (116 mi)
The Tambo River flows through East Gippsland, running from forested high country down toward the Gippsland Lakes, and its water temperature reflects the region’s cool-temperate climate. In summer, from December to February, the river usually sits around 18–22°C, sometimes feeling a bit warmer in slow, sun-exposed pools on hot days. Spring and autumn are milder but cooler, with water temperatures generally in the 14–18°C range. Winter brings the coldest conditions, often around 9–13°C, especially after rain or during extended cloudy periods. Fresh inflows from upstream can cool the river quickly, even outside winter.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in the Tambo River is generally allowed and enjoyed in summer, particularly in inland sections where the river is calmer and less affected by tides. When the weather warms up, the water temperature is refreshing rather than warm, making it well suited to short swims and cooling off on hot days. Locals tend to favour familiar spots with easy access and gentler flow. Water quality is usually good, but conditions can change after heavy rain, when currents strengthen and visibility drops. In lower reaches closer to the lakes, tidal influence and boat traffic mean swimmers need to be more cautious. With settled weather and sensible spot choice, the Tambo offers relaxed and enjoyable river swimming during the warmer months.