Victoria River – current river water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current river water temperature at Victoria River in Northern Territory. 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 Victoria River today is 29°C.
Water Temperature in Victoria River: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
✅ River temperatures above 25°C feel warm and are well suited to leisurely swimming and floating. Comfort remains high even if air temperatures are slightly cooler, though hot weather can make the water feel less refreshing. In slower-flowing rivers, very warm water may feel stagnant, especially during heatwaves. Weather conditions such as strong sun or high humidity can further influence how pleasant the swim feels.
Water Temperature Over the Last 30 Days
Over the past month, water temperatures in Victoria River have stayed mostly steady, also with conditions remaining relatively stable over the past week.
According to our forecast, the water temperature in Victoria River will be 29.9°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mar 12 | 29.0°C | 30.0°C | |
| Mar 13 | 29.1°C | 30.0°C | |
| Mar 14 | 29.0°C | 30.0°C | |
| Mar 15 | 29.0°C | 30.0°C | |
| Mar 16 | 29.0°C | 30.0°C | |
| Mar 17 | 29.0°C | 30.0°C | |
| Mar 18 | 29.0°C | 30.0°C | |
| Mar 19 | 29.0°C | 30.0°C | |
| Mar 20 | 29.0°C | 30.0°C | 29.0°C |
| Mar 21 | 30.0°C | 29.1°C | |
| Mar 22 | 30.0°C | 29.3°C | |
| Mar 23 | 30.0°C | 29.4°C | |
| Mar 24 | 30.0°C | 29.5°C | |
| Mar 25 | 30.0°C | 29.6°C | |
| Mar 26 | 30.0°C | 29.8°C | |
| Mar 27 | 30.0°C | 29.9°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 | 26°C | 30°C | 31°C |
| February | 29°C | 30°C | 31°C |
| March | 29°C | 30°C | 31°C |
| April | 29°C | 30°C | 31°C |
| May | 29°C | 30°C | 31°C |
| June | 29°C | 31°C | 33°C |
| July | 29°C | 31°C | 33°C |
| August | 29°C | 31°C | 33°C |
| September | 29°C | 30°C | 32°C |
| October | 29°C | 30°C | 32°C |
| November | 29°C | 30°C | 32°C |
| December | 29°C | 30°C | 31°C |
Location & Local Information
Source Mount Farquharson
• coordinates 17°28′16.1436″S 130°49′39.6048″E
• elevation 364 m (1,194 ft)
Mouth Joseph Bonaparte Gulf
• coordinates 14°56′50″S 129°33′15″E
• elevation 0 m (0 ft)
Length 560 km (350 mi)
The Victoria River flows across the western Top End, cutting through rugged country on its way to the Timor Sea, and its water temperature reflects the strongly tropical climate. During the Wet Season, roughly from December to March, the river runs high and fast, and water temperatures are usually warm, commonly around 26–30°C. Heavy rain and floodwaters can cool the river briefly, but once flows stabilise, it warms again quickly. In the Dry Season, from about May to September, conditions are calmer and water temperatures generally sit between 24–28°C. Even in the cooler months, the Victoria rarely feels cold, particularly in deep pools that hold water year-round.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in the Victoria River is generally allowed, but it’s very much dependent on location and season. In the Dry Season, people do swim in permanent waterholes, especially in the upper and inland sections where the river is calmer. The warm water makes swimming comfortable, even for longer periods. However, caution is essential. The lower reaches are saltwater crocodile habitat, and crocs can move well upstream, particularly after wet seasons. Strong currents during floods, steep banks and submerged timber also add risk. Because of this, swimming is best limited to well-known inland spots with local advice, making awareness and timing just as important as water temperature.