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 19°C.
Water Temperature in Leichhardt River at Lake Moondarra: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ A river temperature of 15 to 20°C is generally considered cool to comfortable for swimming in Australia. On warm, calm days, this range allows for relaxed swimming and longer time in the water. Comfort depends heavily on air temperature and sunshine, as cooler weather can still make the water feel chilly. This range is popular for river swimming during spring and early autumn.
Water Temperature Over the Last 30 Days
Over the past 30 days, water temperatures in Lake Moondarra have generally increased, although a slight cooling trend has set in over the last week.
According to our forecast, the water temperature in Lake Moondarra will be 21.0°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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aug 15 | 19.6°C | 21.0°C | |
| Aug 16 | 20.0°C | 21.0°C | |
| Aug 17 | 19.1°C | 21.0°C | |
| Aug 18 | 19.1°C | 21.0°C | |
| Aug 19 | 19.4°C | 21.0°C | |
| Aug 20 | 19.2°C | 21.0°C | |
| Aug 21 | 18.6°C | 21.0°C | |
| Aug 22 | 18.5°C | 21.0°C | |
| Aug 23 | 19.0°C | 21.0°C | 19.0°C |
| Aug 24 | 21.0°C | 19.3°C | |
| Aug 25 | 21.0°C | 19.6°C | |
| Aug 26 | 21.0°C | 19.9°C | |
| Aug 27 | 21.0°C | 20.2°C | |
| Aug 28 | 21.0°C | 20.4°C | |
| Aug 29 | 21.0°C | 20.7°C | |
| Aug 30 | 21.0°C | 21.0°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.