Lake Alexandrina – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page provides information about the current water temperature at Lake Alexandrina 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 Lake Alexandrina today is 20°C.
Water Temperature in Lake Alexandrina: 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 Lake Alexandrina 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 Lake Alexandrina will be 19.8°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mar 12 | 19.9°C | 20.0°C | |
| Mar 13 | 20.0°C | 20.0°C | |
| Mar 14 | 20.1°C | 20.0°C | |
| Mar 15 | 19.5°C | 20.0°C | |
| Mar 16 | 21.7°C | 20.0°C | |
| Mar 17 | 21.7°C | 20.0°C | |
| Mar 18 | 19.7°C | 20.0°C | |
| Mar 19 | 19.7°C | 20.0°C | |
| Mar 20 | 19.5°C | 20.0°C | 19.5°C |
| Mar 21 | 20.0°C | 19.5°C | |
| Mar 22 | 20.0°C | 19.6°C | |
| Mar 23 | 20.0°C | 19.6°C | |
| Mar 24 | 20.0°C | 19.7°C | |
| Mar 25 | 20.0°C | 19.7°C | |
| Mar 26 | 20.0°C | 19.7°C | |
| Mar 27 | 20.0°C | 19.8°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 | 18°C | 22°C | 26°C |
| February | 16°C | 21°C | 25°C |
| March | 17°C | 20°C | 25°C |
| April | 13°C | 17°C | 20°C |
| May | 12°C | 14°C | 16°C |
| June | 10°C | 12°C | 13°C |
| July | 9°C | 11°C | 12°C |
| August | 9°C | 12°C | 15°C |
| September | 13°C | 15°C | 17°C |
| October | 14°C | 17°C | 20°C |
| November | 15°C | 19°C | 23°C |
| December | 17°C | 21°C | 24°C |
Location & Local Information
Lake Alexandrina is a massive, shallow freshwater beauty in South Australia, sitting right at the end of the Murray-Darling system before it hits the sea. When it comes to the water temperature, it’s a proper seasonal mix; during a cracking summer, the sun gives the shallow water a good warming, with temperatures typically hitting between 24°C and 27°C. It’s the kind of toasty that makes a long afternoon splash feel like a dream. However, when the winter chill rolls in, the mercury takes a proper dive, often sitting between 11°C and 14°C. It’s a bit of a wake-up call then, so you won’t see many folks jumping in without a thick steamer and a fair bit of grit.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming is generally allowed, and spots like Milang or Clayton Bay are legendary for a bit of a soak or some windsurfing. However, you’ve got to keep your wits about you because the lake is a complex beast. The water quality can be a bit dodgy at times, especially when blue-green algae blooms pop up in the warmer months or after heavy rain flushes runoff into the system. Local authorities often put out alerts if the cyanobacteria levels get too high, as it can give you a nasty rash or an upset stomach. As long as the water is looking clear and there aren't any health warnings in place, it’s a ripper spot to cool off, though most locals reckon it’s always smart to rinse off with fresh water afterwards to stay on the safe side.