Little Blue Lake – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page provides information about the current water temperature at Little Blue Lake in South Australia. 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 Little Blue Lake today is 19°C.
Water Temperature in Little Blue Lake: 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 past month, water temperatures in Little Blue Lake have stayed mostly steady, but a warming trend has developed over the last week.
According to our forecast, the water temperature in Little Blue Lake will be 17.1°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 | 18.9°C | 16.8°C | |
| Mar 13 | 18.4°C | 16.8°C | |
| Mar 14 | 18.4°C | 16.8°C | |
| Mar 15 | 17.8°C | 16.8°C | |
| Mar 16 | 18.9°C | 16.8°C | |
| Mar 17 | 18.9°C | 16.8°C | |
| Mar 18 | 17.2°C | 16.8°C | |
| Mar 19 | 17.4°C | 16.8°C | |
| Mar 20 | 19.4°C | 16.8°C | 19.4°C |
| Mar 21 | 16.8°C | 19.1°C | |
| Mar 22 | 16.8°C | 18.8°C | |
| Mar 23 | 16.8°C | 18.4°C | |
| Mar 24 | 16.8°C | 18.1°C | |
| Mar 25 | 16.8°C | 17.8°C | |
| Mar 26 | 16.8°C | 17.5°C | |
| Mar 27 | 16.8°C | 17.1°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 | 14°C | 18°C | 24°C |
| February | 13°C | 18°C | 24°C |
| March | 13°C | 17°C | 21°C |
| April | 13°C | 15°C | 18°C |
| May | 11°C | 14°C | 16°C |
| June | 9°C | 13°C | 15°C |
| July | 9°C | 13°C | 15°C |
| August | 11°C | 14°C | 16°C |
| September | 11°C | 14°C | 16°C |
| October | 11°C | 15°C | 18°C |
| November | 11°C | 17°C | 21°C |
| December | 13°C | 18°C | 23°C |
Location & Local Information
Little Blue Lake sits in a former volcanic crater near Mount Schank and is known for its striking blue colour and clear water. Despite its appearance, the lake is consistently cold throughout the year. In summer, water temperatures typically sit around 14–17°C, which can feel quite chilly even on hot days. Spring and autumn are similar, usually ranging between 12–15°C, while winter sees temperatures drop further to about 9–12°C. Because the lake is deep and sheltered, it warms very slowly and never reaches what most people would consider warm swimming temperatures.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in Little Blue Lake is officially allowed, but it is suited only to confident swimmers who are comfortable in cold water. There are no currents or waves, but access involves a steep descent, and the cold temperature can be a shock on entry. For this reason, swims are usually short and refreshing rather than relaxed or prolonged. The water is generally clean and clear, which makes swimming appealing from a visual point of view, but safety is strongly dependent on conditions and personal experience. Overall, Little Blue Lake offers a unique cold-water swimming experience, best enjoyed in summer by strong swimmers who understand the risks and are prepared for consistently low water temperatures.