Werribee River – current river water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current river water temperature at Werribee 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 Werribee River today is 13°C.
Water Temperature in Werribee 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 Werribee 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 Werribee River will be 10.6°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 | 14.6°C | 10.3°C | |
| Apr 29 | 14.6°C | 10.3°C | |
| Apr 30 | 14.2°C | 10.3°C | |
| May 1 | 14.2°C | 10.3°C | |
| May 2 | 14.3°C | 10.3°C | |
| May 3 | 13.0°C | 10.3°C | |
| May 4 | 13.0°C | 10.3°C | |
| May 5 | 13.0°C | 10.3°C | |
| May 6 | 13.0°C | 10.3°C | 13.0°C |
| May 7 | 10.3°C | 12.7°C | |
| May 8 | 10.3°C | 12.3°C | |
| May 9 | 10.3°C | 12.0°C | |
| May 10 | 10.3°C | 11.7°C | |
| May 11 | 10.3°C | 11.3°C | |
| May 12 | 10.3°C | 11.0°C | |
| May 13 | 10.3°C | 10.6°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 | 21°C | 26°C |
| February | 17°C | 20°C | 28°C |
| March | 14°C | 17°C | 22°C |
| April | 11°C | 13°C | 18°C |
| May | 7°C | 10°C | 13°C |
| June | 6°C | 8°C | 10°C |
| July | 6°C | 7°C | 9°C |
| August | 7°C | 9°C | 11°C |
| September | 10°C | 11°C | 13°C |
| October | 12°C | 15°C | 18°C |
| November | 14°C | 17°C | 21°C |
| December | 17°C | 19°C | 23°C |
Werribee River: Water Temperature by Location
Location & Local Information
Source Great Dividing Range
• location Wombat State Forest near Korweinguboora
• coordinates 37°26′S 144°10′E
• elevation 501 m (1,644 ft)
Mouth Port Phillip
• location near Werribee South
• coordinates 37°58′42″S 144°41′40″E
• elevation 9 m (30 ft)
Length 110 km (68 mi)
The Werribee River is a classic Victorian waterway that snakes through deep gorges and open plains before meeting the bay. If you’re keen on a dip, you’ll find the water temperature varies quite a bit between the seasons. During the height of a scorching Melbourne summer, the river pools can warm up nicely, usually sitting between 22°C and 25°C, making it a ripper spot to escape the dry heat. However, once the winter rains set in, the temperature takes a proper dive, often dropping to a brisk 8°C or 12°C. It’s the kind of fresh that’ll make your teeth chatter, so most locals tend to keep their toes dry until the warmer weather rolls back around.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming is technically allowed in many sections of the river, with Needles Beach in the Werribee Gorge being a legendary choice for more adventurous souls. It’s a cracker of a spot because you’re surrounded by towering cliffs and native bush, far away from the hustle and bustle. That said, you’ve got to use your noggin and check the conditions before jumping in. The water quality can be a bit hit-and-miss, especially in the lower reaches near the town centre where runoff from the suburbs can muck things up. It’s always best to avoid the water for a few days after heavy rain and keep an eye out for submerged snags or slippery rocks. As long as the water’s looking clear and the flow isn't too fast, it’s a top-notch place for a wild swim.