Balclutha – current water temperature and swimming conditions

This page provides information about the current water temperature at Balclutha in Otago Region. Here you can view recent temperature trends on a 30-day chart, check typical monthly water temperature ranges, and compare today’s reading with historical averages for this date. A 7-day water temperature forecast, local weather conditions, and an overview of swimming suitability are also included.

Current Water Temperature

15.4°C

Today

15.3°C

Yesterday

14.7°C

A Week Ago

The water temperature in Clutha River at Balclutha today is 15°C.

Water Temperature in Clutha River at Balclutha: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast

⚠️ A river temperature of 15 to 20°C is generally considered cool to comfortable for swimming in Australia. On warm, calm days, this range allows for relaxed swimming and longer time in the water. Comfort depends heavily on air temperature and sunshine, as cooler weather can still make the water feel chilly. This range is popular for river swimming during spring and early autumn.

Water Temperature Over the Last 30 Days

Water temperatures in Balclutha 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 Balclutha will be 16.4°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 22	13.3°C	16.5°C
Mar 23	14.8°C	16.5°C
Mar 24	14.7°C	16.5°C
Mar 25	14.7°C	16.5°C
Mar 26	15.2°C	16.5°C
Mar 27	15.2°C	16.5°C
Mar 28	15.3°C	16.5°C
Mar 29	15.3°C	16.5°C
Mar 30	15.4°C	16.5°C	15.4°C
Mar 31		16.5°C	15.5°C
Apr 1		16.5°C	15.7°C
Apr 2		16.5°C	15.8°C
Apr 3		16.5°C	16.0°C
Apr 4		16.5°C	16.1°C
Apr 5		16.5°C	16.2°C
Apr 6		16.5°C	16.4°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	13°C	18°C	22°C
February	14°C	18°C	22°C
March	12°C	17°C	21°C
April	8°C	13°C	17°C
May	7°C	11°C	14°C
June	3°C	8°C	12°C
July	4°C	7°C	9°C
August	3°C	8°C	12°C
September	3°C	8°C	12°C
October	8°C	12°C	15°C
November	8°C	13°C	17°C
December	11°C	16°C	21°C

Balclutha: Weather Forecast

March 30

9°C / 14°C

slight rain showers

rain: 3% | wind: 39 km/h

March 31

7°C / 14°C

slight rain

rain: 4% | wind: 27 km/h

April 1

9°C / 18°C

fog

rain: 13% | wind: 18 km/h

April 2

8°C / 22°C

overcast

rain: 0% | wind: 14 km/h

April 3

11°C / 21°C

slight rain

rain: 63% | wind: 12 km/h

Location & Local Information

Balclutha sits on the lower reaches of the Clutha River, where the river is wide, powerful, and strongly influenced by inland Otago conditions. Water temperatures here are shaped by alpine lake outflows upstream and seasonal weather. In summer, the Clutha River near Balclutha typically reaches around 15–19 °C, which feels cool but refreshing on warm days. Spring and autumn usually bring temperatures in the range of 10–14 °C, while winter sees the river drop to roughly 6–9 °C, making the water very cold and unsuitable for prolonged immersion.

Swimming Conditions

Swimming in the Clutha River around Balclutha is allowed, but it is generally limited to specific calm locations and warm summer conditions. The river’s strong current, depth, and rapid changes in flow after rainfall mean it is not suitable for casual swimming in many areas. Locals who do swim tend to choose sheltered spots close to the riverbank, often during settled weather when water levels are stable. Even in summer, the water remains cool, so swimming is usually short rather than extended. Outside the warmer months, low temperatures and increased flow make swimming impractical for most people. Overall, Balclutha offers limited but possible summer swimming opportunities in the Clutha River, with safety and local knowledge playing an important role in deciding when and where to enter the water.

Nearby Places

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current water temperature in Clutha River at Balclutha?

The water temperature in Clutha River at Balclutha today is 15°C.

What is the water temperature in Clutha River at Balclutha during the summer months?

In summer, water temperatures in Clutha River at Balclutha at Wangi Wangi typically range from 11°C to 22°C.

Is it possible to swim in Clutha River at Balclutha (Otago Region)?

You can swim in the Clutha / Mata‑Au at Balclutha, but it isn’t a typical beach swim — the river is large, often very cold, deep and can have strong, unpredictable currents. If you do go in, stick to known sheltered spots, heed local signage and recent weather/water‑quality advice, avoid entering after heavy rain and consider wearing a lifejacket or swimming with someone who knows the river.