Wyangala – water temperature at Lachlan River
This page provides up-to-date information about the water temperature at Wyangala, located on the Lachlan 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 Lachlan River at Wyangala today is 13°C.
Water Temperature in Lachlan River at Wyangala: 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 Wyangala 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 Wyangala will be 11.9°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apr 28 | 13.5°C | 12.0°C | |
| Apr 29 | 13.3°C | 12.0°C | |
| Apr 30 | 13.4°C | 12.0°C | |
| May 1 | 14.1°C | 12.0°C | |
| May 2 | 13.8°C | 12.0°C | |
| May 3 | 13.8°C | 12.0°C | |
| May 4 | 13.8°C | 12.0°C | |
| May 5 | 13.7°C | 12.0°C | |
| May 6 | 12.8°C | 12.0°C | 12.8°C |
| May 7 | 12.0°C | 12.7°C | |
| May 8 | 12.0°C | 12.6°C | |
| May 9 | 12.0°C | 12.4°C | |
| May 10 | 12.0°C | 12.3°C | |
| May 11 | 12.0°C | 12.2°C | |
| May 12 | 12.0°C | 12.1°C | |
| May 13 | 12.0°C | 11.9°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 | 14°C | 22°C | 26°C |
| February | 14°C | 21°C | 25°C |
| March | 14°C | 19°C | 23°C |
| April | 12°C | 15°C | 19°C |
| May | 9°C | 12°C | 14°C |
| June | 7°C | 10°C | 13°C |
| July | 8°C | 10°C | 12°C |
| August | 8°C | 11°C | 13°C |
| September | 12°C | 13°C | 16°C |
| October | 12°C | 17°C | 20°C |
| November | 13°C | 19°C | 24°C |
| December | 14°C | 21°C | 26°C |
Location & Local Information
Wyangala sits just downstream of the dam on the Lachlan River, and that has a big influence on water temperature through the year. Because flows are regulated, the river here often runs cooler than sections further downstream. In summer, from December to February, water temperatures are usually around 16–20°C, sometimes staying surprisingly cool even on very hot days. Spring and autumn tend to be similar, generally in the 14–18°C range, depending on releases. Winter is distinctly cold, with the river often dropping to about 8–12°C, which can feel biting when you first get in, especially early in the day.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in the Lachlan River around Wyangala is allowed, but it’s more of a refreshing dip than a warm swim for most of the year. In summer, some people do swim, particularly during heatwaves, but the cooler water means it’s not always comfortable for long periods. Conditions are usually clear and clean thanks to the dam, which is a positive, but cold releases can catch swimmers off guard. Currents can also be stronger than they look near release points. Choosing calm stretches well away from the dam wall and being mindful of sudden temperature changes makes swimming safer and more enjoyable in this part of the Lachlan.