Tocumwal – water temperature at Murray River
This page provides up-to-date information about the water temperature at Tocumwal, located on the Murray 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 Murray River at Tocumwal today is 15°C.
Water Temperature in Murray River at Tocumwal: 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 Tocumwal 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 Tocumwal will be 14.4°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 | 14.6°C | 14.3°C | |
| Apr 29 | 14.9°C | 14.3°C | |
| Apr 30 | 14.9°C | 14.3°C | |
| May 1 | 15.1°C | 14.3°C | |
| May 2 | 15.7°C | 14.3°C | |
| May 3 | 15.6°C | 14.3°C | |
| May 4 | 15.6°C | 14.3°C | |
| May 5 | 15.8°C | 14.3°C | |
| May 6 | 14.8°C | 14.3°C | 14.8°C |
| May 7 | 14.3°C | 14.7°C | |
| May 8 | 14.3°C | 14.7°C | |
| May 9 | 14.3°C | 14.6°C | |
| May 10 | 14.3°C | 14.6°C | |
| May 11 | 14.3°C | 14.5°C | |
| May 12 | 14.3°C | 14.4°C | |
| May 13 | 14.3°C | 14.4°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 | 21°C | 25°C | 30°C |
| February | 21°C | 24°C | 28°C |
| March | 19°C | 22°C | 24°C |
| April | 13°C | 18°C | 20°C |
| May | 9°C | 14°C | 19°C |
| June | 8°C | 12°C | 18°C |
| July | 7°C | 12°C | 17°C |
| August | 9°C | 13°C | 18°C |
| September | 12°C | 15°C | 19°C |
| October | 16°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| November | 19°C | 22°C | 26°C |
| December | 21°C | 24°C | 28°C |
Location & Local Information
Tocumwal sits right on the Murray River along the NSW–Victoria border, and the river here reflects the warm inland climate of the southern Riverina. In summer, from December to February, water temperatures around Tocumwal are typically in the range of about 23–26 °C, sometimes feeling even warmer in slower, shallow stretches during heatwaves. Autumn brings a steady cooling, with the river usually sitting between 17 and 21 °C. Winter water temperatures are much lower, commonly around 10–13 °C, which can feel quite cold even on clear days. By spring, the Murray slowly warms again, often reaching 15–19 °C by late October or November, depending on weather and upstream flows.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in the Murray River at Tocumwal is generally allowed and is a normal part of summer life for locals and visitors. The town is known for its grassy riverbanks and relatively wide, gentle sections of river that are well suited to swimming and floating. Currents are usually manageable, though they can strengthen after heavy rain or water releases, and the water can be cooler near deeper channels. Water quality is mostly suitable for recreation, with occasional algae advisories in hot periods. With a bit of common sense and awareness of conditions, Tocumwal offers one of the more relaxed and popular swimming spots along the Murray.