Lake Moondarra – water temperature at Leichhardt River
This page provides up-to-date information about the water temperature at Lake Moondarra, located on the Leichhardt River in Queensland. Here you can check current conditions, view recent temperature trends, explore typical monthly ranges, and compare today’s reading with historical averages for this date. The page also includes a 7-day water temperature forecast, local weather information, and swimming conditions.
Current Water Temperature
The water temperature in Leichhardt River at Lake Moondarra today is 26°C.
Water Temperature in Leichhardt River at Lake Moondarra: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
✅ River temperatures above 25°C feel warm and are well suited to leisurely swimming and floating. Comfort remains high even if air temperatures are slightly cooler, though hot weather can make the water feel less refreshing. In slower-flowing rivers, very warm water may feel stagnant, especially during heatwaves. Weather conditions such as strong sun or high humidity can further influence how pleasant the swim feels.
Water Temperature Over the Last 30 Days
Water temperatures in Lake Moondarrafell over the past month, but have levelled out during the last week.
According to our forecast, the water temperature in Lake Moondarra will be 28.6°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 | 26.0°C | 29.0°C | |
| Mar 13 | 26.2°C | 29.0°C | |
| Mar 14 | 26.0°C | 29.0°C | |
| Mar 15 | 26.0°C | 29.0°C | |
| Mar 16 | 26.0°C | 29.0°C | |
| Mar 17 | 26.0°C | 29.0°C | |
| Mar 18 | 26.0°C | 29.0°C | |
| Mar 19 | 26.0°C | 29.0°C | |
| Mar 20 | 26.0°C | 29.0°C | 26.0°C |
| Mar 21 | 29.0°C | 26.4°C | |
| Mar 22 | 29.0°C | 26.8°C | |
| Mar 23 | 29.0°C | 27.1°C | |
| Mar 24 | 29.0°C | 27.5°C | |
| Mar 25 | 29.0°C | 27.9°C | |
| Mar 26 | 29.0°C | 28.3°C | |
| Mar 27 | 29.0°C | 28.6°C |
* Current - Actual water temperature value
** Average - Average water temperature on this day in recent years
*** Forecast - Our water temperature forecast
Actual river water temperatures may vary by several degrees from the reported values, particularly after heavy rainfall or periods of changing weather. Rainfall, river flow rates, and runoff from cooler upstream areas can significantly affect water temperature, especially in flowing sections and shaded stretches. Air temperature and cloud cover also play an important role, with warm, sunny conditions helping rivers warm up more quickly. As a result, noticeable temperature differences can occur along the same river.
Our forecast is based on a proprietary mathematical model that takes into account real-time river temperature changes, historical data, seasonal patterns, river flow conditions, recent rainfall, and local air temperature. We also factor in broader weather conditions specific to each region of Australia to improve accuracy.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Today | Yesterday | A Week Ago |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 25°C | 29°C | 31°C |
| February | 25°C | 29°C | 32°C |
| March | 26°C | 29°C | 31°C |
| April | 23°C | 26°C | 29°C |
| May | 20°C | 23°C | 26°C |
| June | 17°C | 20°C | 22°C |
| July | 17°C | 20°C | 23°C |
| August | 18°C | 21°C | 25°C |
| September | 20°C | 25°C | 32°C |
| October | 22°C | 27°C | 33°C |
| November | 22°C | 27°C | 30°C |
| December | 22°C | 28°C | 31°C |
Location & Local Information
Lake Moondarra is a major freshwater storage on the upper reaches of the Leichhardt River near Mount Isa, and its water temperature reflects the hot, dry conditions of north-west Queensland. In summer, from December to March, surface water temperatures commonly sit around 26–32°C, warming quickly during long stretches of intense heat. After rain, inflows can briefly cool the lake, but it usually heats up again within days. Autumn and spring are slightly milder, with water temperatures generally in the 22–28°C range. Winter is cooler but still comfortable by Australian standards, with the lake typically sitting around 18–22°C, especially in deeper areas where temperature changes are slower.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in Lake Moondarra is generally allowed and does occur, particularly during the Dry Season when water levels are stable and visibility is good. The warm water makes swimming comfortable for extended periods, not just a quick dip, and calm conditions suit casual recreation. That said, Lake Moondarra is primarily a drinking water supply, so use of the shoreline is managed and swimming tends to be informal rather than heavily developed. Water quality is usually good, but conditions can change with weather and inflows. Sensible behaviour, awareness of local guidelines and avoiding disturbed or muddy edges help keep swimming here safe and enjoyable when conditions are right.