Lake Bonney Riverland – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page provides information about the current water temperature at Lake Bonney Riverland 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 Bonney Riverland today is 19°C.
Water Temperature in Lake Bonney Riverland: 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 Bonney Riverland 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 Bonney Riverland will be 20.3°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 8 | 20.0°C | 20.5°C | |
| Apr 9 | 20.0°C | 20.5°C | |
| Apr 10 | 20.0°C | 20.5°C | |
| Apr 11 | 22.0°C | 20.5°C | |
| Apr 12 | 22.0°C | 20.5°C | |
| Apr 13 | 19.8°C | 20.5°C | |
| Apr 14 | 19.7°C | 20.5°C | |
| Apr 15 | 19.0°C | 20.5°C | |
| Apr 16 | 19.0°C | 20.5°C | 19.0°C |
| Apr 17 | 20.5°C | 19.2°C | |
| Apr 18 | 20.5°C | 19.4°C | |
| Apr 19 | 20.5°C | 19.6°C | |
| Apr 20 | 20.5°C | 19.8°C | |
| Apr 21 | 20.5°C | 19.9°C | |
| Apr 22 | 20.5°C | 20.1°C | |
| Apr 23 | 20.5°C | 20.3°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 | 28°C |
| February | 21°C | 24°C | 30°C |
| March | 17°C | 22°C | 27°C |
| April | 19°C | 21°C | 22°C |
| May | 10°C | 16°C | 20°C |
| June | 10°C | 15°C | 18°C |
| July | 10°C | 14°C | 16°C |
| August | 12°C | 15°C | 19°C |
| September | 13°C | 17°C | 22°C |
| October | 16°C | 19°C | 24°C |
| November | 18°C | 20°C | 26°C |
| December | 18°C | 22°C | 28°C |
Location & Local Information
Lake Bonney, sitting pretty right next to the town of Barmera in South Australia’s Riverland, is a massive freshwater playground that’s a real hit with the locals. When it comes to the water temperature, the lake is a proper seasonal mixed bag; during a cracking summer, the shallow, sun-drenched waters can hit a balmy 24°C to 27°C, which is absolute gold for a long afternoon soak. However, when the winter chill rolls in, the mercury takes a proper dive, often sitting between a brisk 12°C and 15°C. Because it’s relatively shallow, the sun warms it up fast, but it’ll also lose that heat just as quickly when a cold front moves through from the Bight.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming is definitely allowed and is a top-tier way to spend a weekend, with the sandy foreshore at Barmera being a legendary spot for a splash. It’s a ripper choice for families because the water is generally calm and safe, and you don’t have to worry about the salties or heavy rips you’d find at the coast. While taking a soak is fine, you’ve got to keep your wits about you regarding the water quality; since it’s a natural lake system fed by the Murray, things can get a bit murky or see a blue-green algae bloom when it’s been stinking hot for too long. As long as you check the local health signs and don't mind a bit of a wade, it’s a gold-standard spot to cool off and watch the sunset over the gums.