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 13°C.
Water Temperature in Lake Burley Griffin: 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 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 11.2°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 | 13.6°C | 11.0°C | |
| Apr 29 | 13.6°C | 11.0°C | |
| Apr 30 | 13.3°C | 11.0°C | |
| May 1 | 13.2°C | 11.0°C | |
| May 2 | 13.2°C | 11.0°C | |
| May 3 | 13.2°C | 11.0°C | |
| May 4 | 13.1°C | 11.0°C | |
| May 5 | 13.0°C | 11.0°C | |
| May 6 | 12.9°C | 11.0°C | 12.9°C |
| May 7 | 11.0°C | 12.7°C | |
| May 8 | 11.0°C | 12.4°C | |
| May 9 | 11.0°C | 12.2°C | |
| May 10 | 11.0°C | 11.9°C | |
| May 11 | 11.0°C | 11.7°C | |
| May 12 | 11.0°C | 11.4°C | |
| May 13 | 11.0°C | 11.2°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.