Kanahooka – water temperature at Lake Illawarra
This page provides up-to-date information about the water temperature at Kanahooka, located on the Lake Illawarra in New South Wales. Here you can check current conditions, view recent temperature trends, explore typical monthly ranges, and compare today’s reading with historical averages for this date. The page also includes a 7-day water temperature forecast, local weather information, and swimming conditions.
Current Water Temperature
The water temperature in Lake Illawarra at Kanahooka today is 17°C.
Water Temperature in Lake Illawarra at Kanahooka: 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 Kanahooka 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 Kanahooka will be 13.8°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 | 17.0°C | 13.3°C | |
| Apr 29 | 17.0°C | 13.3°C | |
| Apr 30 | 17.5°C | 13.3°C | |
| May 1 | 17.4°C | 13.3°C | |
| May 2 | 17.3°C | 13.3°C | |
| May 3 | 17.3°C | 13.3°C | |
| May 4 | 17.3°C | 13.3°C | |
| May 5 | 17.3°C | 13.3°C | |
| May 6 | 17.2°C | 13.3°C | 17.2°C |
| May 7 | 13.3°C | 16.7°C | |
| May 8 | 13.3°C | 16.2°C | |
| May 9 | 13.3°C | 15.7°C | |
| May 10 | 13.3°C | 15.3°C | |
| May 11 | 13.3°C | 14.8°C | |
| May 12 | 13.3°C | 14.3°C | |
| May 13 | 13.3°C | 13.8°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 | 17°C | 20°C | 24°C |
| February | 17°C | 20°C | 22°C |
| March | 15°C | 19°C | 21°C |
| April | 13°C | 16°C | 20°C |
| May | 10°C | 13°C | 19°C |
| June | 8°C | 11°C | 16°C |
| July | 8°C | 10°C | 13°C |
| August | 8°C | 10°C | 13°C |
| September | 10°C | 12°C | 15°C |
| October | 11°C | 15°C | 18°C |
| November | 14°C | 17°C | 21°C |
| December | 16°C | 19°C | 22°C |
Location & Local Information
Kanahooka sits on the western shore of Lake Illawarra, where sheltered lagoon conditions keep the water relatively mild through the year. Water temperatures here follow the local coastal climate rather than the open ocean. In summer, the lake around Kanahooka typically warms to about 22–26°C, feeling comfortably warm and well suited to swimming on hot days. Spring and autumn usually sit in the 18–22°C range, which remains pleasant when the sun is out. During winter, temperatures tend to drop to around 15–18°C, cool but still manageable for a short swim compared with many inland lakes in southern New South Wales.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in Lake Illawarra at Kanahooka is generally allowed and commonly enjoyed in calm, shallow areas away from main boating channels. The lake has little wave action and only gentle currents, making it suitable for relaxed swimming and paddling, especially during summer. Water quality is usually good in dry, settled weather, which is when most locals choose to swim. After heavy rainfall, runoff can temporarily affect clarity and slightly lower water temperatures, so swimming is often avoided until conditions improve. Overall, Kanahooka offers reliable seasonal swimming in Lake Illawarra, with sheltered waters and moderate temperatures providing a comfortable alternative to nearby surf beaches.