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 14°C.
Water Temperature in Lake Bonney SE: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ Lake temperatures between 10 and 15°C are cold but can be manageable for short swims on sunny, warm days. Shallow areas may feel slightly warmer, while deeper sections remain cold and slow to warm up. Most swimmers keep sessions brief, and wetsuits are often used for comfort. Wind and cooler air temperatures can quickly reduce how pleasant the swim feels.
Water Temperature Over the Last 30 Days
Water temperatures in Lake Bonney SE 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 SE will be 12.3°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 28 | 16.0°C | 12.8°C | |
| Apr 29 | 15.8°C | 12.8°C | |
| Apr 30 | 16.1°C | 12.8°C | |
| May 1 | 15.2°C | 12.8°C | |
| May 2 | 16.0°C | 12.8°C | |
| May 3 | 15.0°C | 12.8°C | |
| May 4 | 15.0°C | 12.8°C | |
| May 5 | 15.0°C | 12.8°C | |
| May 6 | 14.2°C | 12.8°C | 14.2°C |
| May 7 | 12.8°C | 13.9°C | |
| May 8 | 12.8°C | 13.7°C | |
| May 9 | 12.8°C | 13.4°C | |
| May 10 | 12.8°C | 13.1°C | |
| May 11 | 12.8°C | 12.8°C | |
| May 12 | 12.8°C | 12.6°C | |
| May 13 | 12.8°C | 12.3°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.