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

19.0°C

Today

19.0°C

Yesterday

21.2°C

A Week Ago

The water temperature in Coongie Lakes today is 19°C.

Water Temperature in Coongie Lakes: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast

⚠️ A lake temperature of 15 to 20°C is considered cool to comfortable for swimming in Australia. On warm days with light winds, this range allows for relaxed swimming, especially in shallow or sheltered areas. Comfort depends strongly on air temperature and sunshine, as cooler or overcast weather can still make the water feel chilly. This range is common during spring and early summer.

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 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
Apr 28	20.5°C	16.0°C
Apr 29	21.1°C	16.0°C
Apr 30	21.2°C	16.0°C
May 1	21.0°C	16.0°C
May 2	19.0°C	16.0°C
May 3	19.0°C	16.0°C
May 4	19.0°C	16.0°C
May 5	19.0°C	16.0°C
May 6	19.0°C	16.0°C	19.0°C
May 7		16.0°C	18.6°C
May 8		16.0°C	18.3°C
May 9		16.0°C	17.9°C
May 10		16.0°C	17.5°C
May 11		16.0°C	17.1°C
May 12		16.0°C	16.8°C
May 13		16.0°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 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.

Nearby Lakes

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current water temperature in Coongie Lakes?

The water temperature in Coongie Lakes today is 19°C.

What is the water temperature in Coongie Lakes during the summer months?

In summer, water temperatures in Coongie Lakes typically range from 22°C to 32°C.

Is it possible to swim in Coongie Lakes (South Australia)?

You can sometimes swim in the Coongie Lakes when channels and billabongs are filled, but water levels, clarity and quality are highly variable — water can be warm, muddy and prone to blue‑green algae and disease‑causing bacteria. The area is remote with no facilities or lifeguards, so check local signage and current advice from Innamincka rangers or SA Government health/environment agencies before entering the water and avoid swimming after heavy rains or if an algal bloom is visible.