Herdsman Lake – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page provides information about the current water temperature at Herdsman Lake in Western 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 Herdsman Lake today is 26°C.
Water Temperature in Herdsman Lake: 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 Herdsman Lake 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 Herdsman Lake will be 23.4°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 12 | 25.2°C | 22.9°C | |
| Mar 13 | 25.1°C | 22.9°C | |
| Mar 14 | 24.1°C | 22.9°C | |
| Mar 15 | 23.9°C | 22.9°C | |
| Mar 16 | 26.0°C | 22.9°C | |
| Mar 17 | 26.0°C | 22.9°C | |
| Mar 18 | 25.8°C | 22.9°C | |
| Mar 19 | 25.6°C | 22.9°C | |
| Mar 20 | 26.1°C | 22.9°C | 26.1°C |
| Mar 21 | 22.9°C | 25.7°C | |
| Mar 22 | 22.9°C | 25.3°C | |
| Mar 23 | 22.9°C | 24.9°C | |
| Mar 24 | 22.9°C | 24.6°C | |
| Mar 25 | 22.9°C | 24.2°C | |
| Mar 26 | 22.9°C | 23.8°C | |
| Mar 27 | 22.9°C | 23.4°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 | 20°C | 23°C | 32°C |
| February | 20°C | 23°C | 33°C |
| March | 20°C | 23°C | 33°C |
| April | 19°C | 20°C | 24°C |
| May | 16°C | 19°C | 20°C |
| June | 14°C | 20°C | 24°C |
| July | 14°C | 20°C | 24°C |
| August | 15°C | 20°C | 24°C |
| September | 14°C | 20°C | 24°C |
| October | 18°C | 21°C | 24°C |
| November | 20°C | 22°C | 33°C |
| December | 20°C | 23°C | 33°C |
Location & Local Information
Herdsman Lake is a large shallow wetland just north of Perth’s CBD, influenced by seasonal rainfall and the region’s Mediterranean climate. Because the lake is shallow, water temperatures respond quickly to air temperature and sunshine. In summer, the water can warm to around 20–25°C, sometimes feeling quite warm during extended hot spells. Spring and autumn are milder, with temperatures generally sitting between 16–20°C. In winter, water temperatures usually drop to about 12–15°C, giving the lake a cool feel, especially after cold nights or periods of rain. Wind and cloud cover can also cause noticeable day-to-day changes.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in Herdsman Lake is not allowed and not recommended. The lake is managed as a protected wetland rather than a recreational swimming area, and water quality can be variable due to nutrient levels, urban runoff, and occasional algal growth. It is also an important habitat for birds and other wildlife, and human swimming would disturb the ecosystem. Even when summer temperatures appear suitable, the lack of designated access points and safety management makes swimming inappropriate. Overall, Herdsman Lake is best enjoyed for walking, cycling, and wildlife observation, with its seasonal water temperatures noted but swimming avoided in favour of safer, managed beaches and rivers elsewhere in the Perth area.