Lake Burrendong – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page provides information about the current water temperature at Lake Burrendong in New South Wales. 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 Burrendong today is 18°C.
Water Temperature in Lake Burrendong: 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
Over the last 30 days, water temperatures in Lake Burrendong have trended upward, with conditions remaining relatively stable over the past week.
According to our forecast, the water temperature in Lake Burrendong will be 16.2°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oct 7 | 17.2°C | 15.8°C | |
| Oct 8 | 17.5°C | 15.8°C | |
| Oct 9 | 17.5°C | 15.8°C | |
| Oct 10 | 17.9°C | 15.8°C | |
| Oct 11 | 15.9°C | 15.8°C | |
| Oct 12 | 17.0°C | 15.8°C | |
| Oct 13 | 16.9°C | 15.8°C | |
| Oct 14 | 17.2°C | 15.8°C | |
| Oct 15 | 17.5°C | 15.8°C | 17.5°C |
| Oct 16 | 15.8°C | 17.3°C | |
| Oct 17 | 15.8°C | 17.1°C | |
| Oct 18 | 15.8°C | 16.9°C | |
| Oct 19 | 15.8°C | 16.8°C | |
| Oct 20 | 15.8°C | 16.6°C | |
| Oct 21 | 15.8°C | 16.4°C | |
| Oct 22 | 15.8°C | 16.2°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 | 23°C | 28°C |
| February | 14°C | 22°C | 26°C |
| March | 18°C | 21°C | 25°C |
| April | 15°C | 18°C | 21°C |
| May | 11°C | 14°C | 17°C |
| June | 9°C | 12°C | 15°C |
| July | 9°C | 11°C | 12°C |
| August | 10°C | 11°C | 13°C |
| September | 12°C | 14°C | 16°C |
| October | 13°C | 16°C | 20°C |
| November | 14°C | 18°C | 23°C |
| December | 13°C | 21°C | 26°C |
Location & Local Information
Lake Burrendong, affectionately known as The Dam by the locals in Central West New South Wales, is a massive inland playground where the water is as inviting as a cold drink on a summer's day. When the sun is properly cracking the flags in January or February, the surface water temperature usually hits a balmy 23°C to 27°C. It’s the kind of toasty warmth that lets you float about for hours without catching a chill. However, once the winter frost settles over the Macquarie Valley, the mercury takes a proper dive, often sitting between a brisk 10°C and 14°C. It’s a real wake-up call then, so unless you’re as tough as an old gum tree, you’ll probably want a thick steamer if you’re planning on anything more than a quick splash.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming is definitely allowed and is a legendary part of life at the local holiday parks and recreation areas. It’s a ripper spot for families because you’ve got calm, sandy stretches away from the high-speed boaties and skiers. The only time you really need to keep your wits about you is if there’s a blue-green algae alert, as the dam can sometimes get a bit of a bloom when it’s been stinking hot and still for too long. You should also watch your step when entering, as the water level fluctuates and can hide submerged snags or rocks. As long as you check the local WaterNSW alerts and stick to the designated swimming zones, it’s a gold-standard place to wash off the dust of the western plains.