Tuross River – current river water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current river water temperature at Tuross River in New South Wales. 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 Tuross River today is 12°C.
Water Temperature in Tuross 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 Tuross 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 Tuross River will be 8.7°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aug 15 | 11.1°C | 8.3°C | |
| Aug 16 | 11.3°C | 8.3°C | |
| Aug 17 | 11.1°C | 8.3°C | |
| Aug 18 | 11.0°C | 8.3°C | |
| Aug 19 | 11.1°C | 8.3°C | |
| Aug 20 | 10.9°C | 8.3°C | |
| Aug 21 | 11.2°C | 8.3°C | |
| Aug 22 | 11.5°C | 8.3°C | |
| Aug 23 | 11.6°C | 8.3°C | 11.6°C |
| Aug 24 | 8.3°C | 11.2°C | |
| Aug 25 | 8.3°C | 10.8°C | |
| Aug 26 | 8.3°C | 10.4°C | |
| Aug 27 | 8.3°C | 10.0°C | |
| Aug 28 | 8.3°C | 9.5°C | |
| Aug 29 | 8.3°C | 9.1°C | |
| Aug 30 | 8.3°C | 8.7°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 | 16°C | 21°C | 24°C |
| February | 17°C | 20°C | 23°C |
| March | 15°C | 18°C | 22°C |
| April | 11°C | 15°C | 19°C |
| May | 7°C | 11°C | 15°C |
| June | 5°C | 8°C | 11°C |
| July | 4°C | 7°C | 10°C |
| August | 4°C | 8°C | 12°C |
| September | 6°C | 11°C | 16°C |
| October | 9°C | 14°C | 20°C |
| November | 11°C | 17°C | 21°C |
| December | 13°C | 19°C | 24°C |
Tuross River: Water Temperature by Location
Bodalla
Tuross Head
Location & Local Information
Source Kybeyan Range, Great Dividing Range
• location Mount Kydra, Wadbilliga National Park
• elevation 1,170 m (3,840 ft)
Mouth Tasman Sea, South Pacific Ocean
• location Tuross Lake, at Tuross Head
Length 147 km (91 mi)
The Tuross River is a real corker of a spot on the New South Wales South Coast, snaking its way through pristine bushland before opening up into a massive, shimmering estuary at Tuross Head. If you’re looking to take a dip, the water quality is generally top-notch, especially since a huge chunk of the catchment is protected forest. During the height of summer, you’re looking at gorgeous water temperatures averaging between 21°C and 23°C, which is spot on for a long afternoon splash. However, things get a bit fresh in the winter months when the mercury can dip down to a brisk 13°C or 16°C, so you’d probably want a steamer if you’re planning on staying in for more than a quick minute.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming is definitely allowed and is a local favourite, particularly around the sandy shallows of the lower estuary where the current is gentler. It’s a cracker of a place for families because the sandbars create natural wading pools that are much calmer than the open ocean nearby. Just keep your wits about you after a heavy downpour; like any river system, the water can get a bit murky with runoff, so it's best to wait a couple of days for it to clear up. As long as you keep an eye on the tides and steer clear of the deeper channels when the current is ripping, you’re in for a legendary swim in one of the state's most scenic waterways.