Yarra River – current river water temperature and swimming conditions
This page shows the current river water temperature at Yarra 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 Yarra River today is 11°C.
Water Temperature in Yarra 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 Yarra 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 Yarra River will be 10.1°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 | 10.5°C | 10.0°C | |
| Aug 16 | 10.5°C | 10.0°C | |
| Aug 17 | 10.0°C | 10.0°C | |
| Aug 18 | 10.1°C | 10.0°C | |
| Aug 19 | 10.2°C | 10.0°C | |
| Aug 20 | 10.3°C | 10.0°C | |
| Aug 21 | 10.4°C | 10.0°C | |
| Aug 22 | 10.7°C | 10.0°C | |
| Aug 23 | 10.9°C | 10.0°C | 10.9°C |
| Aug 24 | 10.0°C | 10.8°C | |
| Aug 25 | 10.0°C | 10.7°C | |
| Aug 26 | 10.0°C | 10.6°C | |
| Aug 27 | 10.0°C | 10.5°C | |
| Aug 28 | 10.0°C | 10.3°C | |
| Aug 29 | 10.0°C | 10.2°C | |
| Aug 30 | 10.0°C | 10.1°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 | 25°C |
| February | 16°C | 21°C | 26°C |
| March | 14°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| April | 11°C | 15°C | 17°C |
| May | 9°C | 11°C | 14°C |
| June | 8°C | 10°C | 12°C |
| July | 7°C | 9°C | 10°C |
| August | 8°C | 10°C | 13°C |
| September | 9°C | 13°C | 17°C |
| October | 10°C | 15°C | 17°C |
| November | 14°C | 17°C | 21°C |
| December | 15°C | 20°C | 24°C |
Yarra River: Water Temperature by Location
Millgrove
Warburton
🔗 Yarra Glen
Warrandyte
Templestowe Lower
🔗 Melbourne
Location & Local Information
Source Yarra Ranges, Great Dividing Range
• location within Yarra Ranges National Park
• coordinates 37°44′57″S 146°8′26″E
• elevation 792 m (2,598 ft)
Mouth Hobsons Bay, Port Phillip
• location near the suburb of Port Melbourne
• coordinates 37°51′7″S 144°54′30″E
• elevation 0 m (0 ft)
Length 242 km (150 mi)
The Yarra River flows from the forested Yarra Ranges down through Melbourne and out to Port Phillip Bay, and its water temperature reflects Victoria’s cool-temperate climate. In summer, from December to February, the river usually sits around 18–22°C, sometimes feeling a touch warmer in slow-moving, sun-exposed sections upstream. Spring and autumn are milder but cooler, with water temperatures generally in the 14–18°C range. Winter brings the coldest conditions, often around 10–13°C, especially after rain or during overcast weather. Being a regulated and rain-fed system, the Yarra can cool down quickly after cold fronts or heavy runoff.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in the Yarra River is technically allowed, but it’s generally not recommended, particularly through Melbourne and the lower reaches. While summer water temperatures can be tolerable for a short dip, water quality is variable due to urban runoff, stormwater and boat traffic. Visibility is often poor, and there are hidden hazards such as debris, steep banks and sudden depth changes. In the upper reaches, closer to the Yarra Ranges, some calmer and cleaner sections may look inviting, but cold water and changing conditions still require caution. Most locals enjoy the Yarra for walking, cycling, kayaking and scenery rather than swimming, choosing beaches, pools or designated swimming areas instead.