Lake Burley Griffin – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page provides information about the current water temperature at Lake Burley Griffin in Australian Capital Territory. 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 Burley Griffin today is 19°C.
Water Temperature in Lake Burley Griffin: 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 Burley Griffin 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 Burley Griffin will be 19.6°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 | 19.7°C | |
| Mar 13 | 19.9°C | 19.7°C | |
| Mar 14 | 19.8°C | 19.7°C | |
| Mar 15 | 19.6°C | 19.7°C | |
| Mar 16 | 19.4°C | 19.7°C | |
| Mar 17 | 19.4°C | 19.7°C | |
| Mar 18 | 19.2°C | 19.7°C | |
| Mar 19 | 18.9°C | 19.7°C | |
| Mar 20 | 19.1°C | 19.7°C | 19.1°C |
| Mar 21 | 19.7°C | 19.2°C | |
| Mar 22 | 19.7°C | 19.3°C | |
| Mar 23 | 19.7°C | 19.3°C | |
| Mar 24 | 19.7°C | 19.4°C | |
| Mar 25 | 19.7°C | 19.5°C | |
| Mar 26 | 19.7°C | 19.6°C | |
| Mar 27 | 19.7°C | 19.6°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 | 24°C | 29°C |
| February | 18°C | 22°C | 27°C |
| March | 16°C | 20°C | 23°C |
| April | 10°C | 15°C | 19°C |
| May | 7°C | 11°C | 14°C |
| June | 7°C | 9°C | 13°C |
| July | 6°C | 8°C | 10°C |
| August | 6°C | 9°C | 11°C |
| September | 9°C | 13°C | 16°C |
| October | 11°C | 16°C | 21°C |
| November | 15°C | 19°C | 24°C |
| December | 15°C | 21°C | 27°C |
Location & Local Information
Lake Burley Griffin sits at the heart of the national capital and reflects Canberra’s inland climate and seasonal extremes. Water temperatures vary widely through the year. In summer, the lake usually reaches around 18–22°C, occasionally nudging a little higher during heatwaves, but it still feels cool compared with coastal or northern lakes. Spring and autumn tend to sit between 14–18°C, while winter water temperatures often drop to about 8–12°C, making the lake distinctly cold. Because the lake is broad and exposed, wind and overnight cooling can strongly affect how the water feels on any given day.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in Lake Burley Griffin is generally not recommended for casual recreation. While swimming is not permanently banned, the lake is not managed as a public swimming area. Water quality can vary due to stormwater inflows, algal growth during warmer months, and occasional debris, particularly after heavy rain. The cold water for much of the year also limits comfort and increases the risk of cold shock. Swimming is usually restricted to organised events under controlled conditions. Overall, Lake Burley Griffin is better suited to rowing, kayaking, and lakeside activities, with its water temperatures and variable conditions making it an unreliable and discouraged option for regular swimming.