Googong Reservoir – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page provides information about the current water temperature at Googong Reservoir in Australian Capital Territory. 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 Googong Reservoir today is 13°C.
Water Temperature in Googong Reservoir: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ Lake temperatures between 10 and 15°C are cold but can be manageable for short swims on sunny, warm days. Shallow areas may feel slightly warmer, while deeper sections remain cold and slow to warm up. Most swimmers keep sessions brief, and wetsuits are often used for comfort. Wind and cooler air temperatures can quickly reduce how pleasant the swim feels.
Water Temperature Over the Last 30 Days
While water temperatures in Googong Reservoir declined overall during the past month, they have shown a noticeable rebound over the last week.
According to our forecast, the water temperature in Googong Reservoir will be 10.5°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 | 12.9°C | 10.3°C | |
| Apr 29 | 12.9°C | 10.3°C | |
| Apr 30 | 12.6°C | 10.3°C | |
| May 1 | 13.0°C | 10.3°C | |
| May 2 | 13.0°C | 10.3°C | |
| May 3 | 13.0°C | 10.3°C | |
| May 4 | 12.9°C | 10.3°C | |
| May 5 | 12.8°C | 10.3°C | |
| May 6 | 12.8°C | 10.3°C | 12.8°C |
| May 7 | 10.3°C | 12.5°C | |
| May 8 | 10.3°C | 12.2°C | |
| May 9 | 10.3°C | 11.8°C | |
| May 10 | 10.3°C | 11.5°C | |
| May 11 | 10.3°C | 11.2°C | |
| May 12 | 10.3°C | 10.9°C | |
| May 13 | 10.3°C | 10.5°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 | 21°C | 23°C | 26°C |
| February | 20°C | 22°C | 25°C |
| March | 16°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| April | 11°C | 15°C | 18°C |
| May | 7°C | 10°C | 14°C |
| June | 4°C | 8°C | 10°C |
| July | 4°C | 7°C | 8°C |
| August | 5°C | 8°C | 11°C |
| September | 10°C | 12°C | 15°C |
| October | 14°C | 16°C | 19°C |
| November | 16°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| December | 19°C | 21°C | 25°C |
Location & Local Information
Googong Reservoir lies east of Canberra and is a large man-made lake supplying drinking water to the ACT and surrounding region. Water temperature here reflects the cool inland climate and the reservoir’s depth. In summer, surface temperatures typically reach around 18–22°C, which can feel refreshing but not warm, even during heatwaves. Spring and autumn are cooler again, usually sitting between 14–18°C. During winter, the water often drops to about 8–12°C, giving it a distinctly cold feel, especially in shaded or wind-exposed areas. Because the reservoir is deep, temperatures change slowly and remain cool for much of the year.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in Googong Reservoir is not allowed. The lake is managed strictly as a drinking water supply, and protecting water quality is the top priority. Recreational activities that involve direct contact with the water, including swimming, are prohibited. Even if temperatures in summer appear suitable, access to the water is restricted and closely monitored. In addition, cold water, variable depths, and limited safe entry points would make swimming unsafe even without the restrictions. Overall, Googong Reservoir is best appreciated for walking, cycling, and enjoying the surrounding landscape, with its seasonal water temperatures noted but swimming firmly excluded due to its role in supplying clean drinking water.