Lake Bonney SE – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page provides information about the current water temperature at Lake Bonney SE 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 SE today is 19°C.
Water Temperature in Lake Bonney SE: 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 SEfell over the past month, but have levelled out during the last week.
According to our forecast, the water temperature in Lake Bonney SE will be 17.3°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mar 12 | 19.6°C | 18.3°C | |
| Mar 13 | 18.7°C | 18.3°C | |
| Mar 14 | 18.7°C | 18.3°C | |
| Mar 15 | 18.2°C | 18.3°C | |
| Mar 16 | 19.0°C | 18.3°C | |
| Mar 17 | 19.0°C | 18.3°C | |
| Mar 18 | 17.6°C | 18.3°C | |
| Mar 19 | 18.0°C | 18.3°C | |
| Mar 20 | 18.7°C | 18.3°C | 18.7°C |
| Mar 21 | 18.3°C | 18.5°C | |
| Mar 22 | 18.3°C | 18.3°C | |
| Mar 23 | 18.3°C | 18.1°C | |
| Mar 24 | 18.3°C | 17.9°C | |
| Mar 25 | 18.3°C | 17.7°C | |
| Mar 26 | 18.3°C | 17.5°C | |
| Mar 27 | 18.3°C | 17.3°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 | 18°C | 21°C | 26°C |
| February | 18°C | 21°C | 26°C |
| March | 13°C | 18°C | 25°C |
| April | 12°C | 15°C | 18°C |
| May | 9°C | 13°C | 15°C |
| June | 7°C | 11°C | 14°C |
| July | 7°C | 11°C | 13°C |
| August | 11°C | 12°C | 15°C |
| September | 13°C | 14°C | 17°C |
| October | 15°C | 17°C | 18°C |
| November | 17°C | 19°C | 21°C |
| December | 18°C | 20°C | 24°C |
Location & Local Information
Lake Bonney SE is a large freshwater lake in South Australia’s Limestone Coast region, known for its open shoreline and steady breezes. Water temperatures here vary clearly with the seasons. In summer, the lake typically warms to around 20–24°C, which feels refreshing rather than hot, even on warm days. Spring and autumn usually sit in the 16–20°C range, still comfortable for a swim when the weather is settled. During winter, water temperatures often drop to about 12–15°C, giving the lake a cool, brisk feel that limits swimming to very short dips.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in Lake Bonney SE is generally allowed, though it tends to be occasional rather than regular. The lake is shallow in many areas, which helps it warm up in summer, but it is also exposed to wind, and choppy conditions are common. On calm summer days, some locals do swim close to the shore where access is easy and the water feels warmer. Water quality is usually suitable in stable conditions, but strong winds can stir up sediment and reduce comfort. Overall, Lake Bonney SE offers limited seasonal swimming opportunities, best enjoyed in warm, calm weather, with conditions that suit brief, refreshing swims rather than long or relaxed sessions in the water.