Coongie Lakes – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page provides information about the current water temperature at Coongie Lakes in South Australia. 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
The water temperature in Coongie Lakes today is 26°C.
Water Temperature in Coongie Lakes: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
✅ Lake temperatures above 25°C feel warm and are well suited to long, relaxed swims. Comfort remains high even if air temperatures are slightly lower, though very hot weather can make the water feel less refreshing. In shallow or still lakes, warm water may feel heavy or stagnant during heatwaves. Weather factors such as strong sun and high humidity can further affect overall swimming comfort.
Water Temperature Over the Last 30 Days
Water temperatures in Coongie Lakes 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 Coongie Lakes will be 26.0°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 | 29.1°C | 26.5°C | |
| Mar 13 | 29.1°C | 26.5°C | |
| Mar 14 | 26.1°C | 26.5°C | |
| Mar 15 | 26.0°C | 26.5°C | |
| Mar 16 | 28.7°C | 26.5°C | |
| Mar 17 | 28.7°C | 26.5°C | |
| Mar 18 | 26.3°C | 26.5°C | |
| Mar 19 | 26.4°C | 26.5°C | |
| Mar 20 | 25.9°C | 26.5°C | 25.9°C |
| Mar 21 | 26.5°C | 25.9°C | |
| Mar 22 | 26.5°C | 25.9°C | |
| Mar 23 | 26.5°C | 25.9°C | |
| Mar 24 | 26.5°C | 26.0°C | |
| Mar 25 | 26.5°C | 26.0°C | |
| Mar 26 | 26.5°C | 26.0°C | |
| Mar 27 | 26.5°C | 26.0°C |
* Current - Actual water temperature value
** Average - Average water temperature on this day in recent years
*** Forecast - Our water temperature forecast
Actual lake water temperatures may differ from the reported values by several degrees, particularly during periods of strong winds or rapid weather changes. Wind can mix surface and deeper layers in a lake, bringing cooler water to the surface, while shallow areas may warm more quickly under direct sunlight. Air temperature, sunshine, and cloud cover strongly influence how quickly a lake heats up or cools down. These factors can lead to noticeable temperature variations across different parts of the lake.
Our forecast is based on a proprietary mathematical model that considers real-time lake temperature observations, historical trends, seasonal cycles, wind strength and direction, and region-specific air temperature. To enhance accuracy, we also incorporate data from nearby monitored locations and comparable lakes within Australia.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Today | Yesterday | A Week Ago |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 22°C | 28°C | 32°C |
| February | 22°C | 28°C | 31°C |
| March | 20°C | 27°C | 31°C |
| April | 16°C | 20°C | 26°C |
| May | 13°C | 16°C | 19°C |
| June | 12°C | 14°C | 15°C |
| July | 11°C | 13°C | 14°C |
| August | 13°C | 16°C | 19°C |
| September | 16°C | 18°C | 20°C |
| October | 19°C | 23°C | 26°C |
| November | 21°C | 25°C | 28°C |
| December | 23°C | 27°C | 30°C |
Location & Local Information
Coongie Lakes is a remote network of lakes and channels in the far north-east of South Australia, fed by floodwaters from Cooper Creek. Water temperature here is highly seasonal and depends on whether the lakes are holding water at all. After flooding, during warmer months, shallow sections can warm quickly, often reaching around 24–32°C in summer. In spring and autumn, temperatures are more moderate, usually sitting between 18–25°C. During winter, if water remains, temperatures can drop to roughly 12–18°C, especially overnight. Strong sun, shallow depth, and still conditions mean the water can heat up rapidly during the day.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in the Coongie Lakes is generally not recommended. While swimming is not strictly prohibited, the area is extremely remote and conditions can be unpredictable. Water quality varies with flooding cycles, and some lakes can become stagnant as water levels drop. Wildlife, including snakes and other animals, is common, and access to safe entry points is limited. In addition, the lakes are part of a protected wetland system valued for their ecological importance rather than recreation. Overall, despite sometimes warm water temperatures, Coongie Lakes are best appreciated for their unique desert wetland landscape and birdlife, with swimming discouraged due to safety, remoteness, and environmental considerations.