Smiths Lake – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page provides information about the current water temperature at Smiths Lake 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 Smiths Lake today is 20°C.
Water Temperature in Smiths 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
Water temperatures in Smiths Lake 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 Smiths Lake will be 18.2°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 | 20.0°C | 18.0°C | |
| Apr 29 | 20.0°C | 18.0°C | |
| Apr 30 | 20.0°C | 18.0°C | |
| May 1 | 20.0°C | 18.0°C | |
| May 2 | 19.6°C | 18.0°C | |
| May 3 | 19.8°C | 18.0°C | |
| May 4 | 19.7°C | 18.0°C | |
| May 5 | 19.7°C | 18.0°C | |
| May 6 | 19.6°C | 18.0°C | 19.6°C |
| May 7 | 18.0°C | 19.4°C | |
| May 8 | 18.0°C | 19.2°C | |
| May 9 | 18.0°C | 19.0°C | |
| May 10 | 18.0°C | 18.8°C | |
| May 11 | 18.0°C | 18.6°C | |
| May 12 | 18.0°C | 18.4°C | |
| May 13 | 18.0°C | 18.2°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 | 24°C | 25°C | 26°C |
| February | 24°C | 25°C | 26°C |
| March | 21°C | 24°C | 26°C |
| April | 20°C | 22°C | 24°C |
| May | 15°C | 18°C | 21°C |
| June | 13°C | 15°C | 17°C |
| July | 13°C | 15°C | 16°C |
| August | 13°C | 16°C | 19°C |
| September | 16°C | 20°C | 22°C |
| October | 11°C | 21°C | 25°C |
| November | 21°C | 23°C | 25°C |
| December | 21°C | 23°C | 25°C |
Location & Local Information
Smiths Lake is a coastal lake on the Mid North Coast, separated from the ocean by a sandbar and largely sheltered from surf and swell. Water temperature here is influenced by seasonal weather and rainfall rather than open sea conditions. In summer, the lake typically warms to around 22–26°C, feeling comfortably warm and well suited to swimming. Spring and autumn usually sit in the 18–22°C range, which remains pleasant on sunny days. During winter, water temperatures often drop to about 14–18°C, cool but still manageable for a short swim, especially compared with the nearby ocean.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming in Smiths Lake is allowed and very popular, particularly in calm conditions when the lake is glassy and protected from wind. The water is generally shallow near the shore, with little current, making it suitable for relaxed swimming and family use. Water quality is usually good in dry weather, and the lack of waves makes it a safe alternative to ocean beaches. When the lake entrance opens to the sea after heavy rain, currents can increase and the water may feel cooler, so swimmers tend to be more cautious. Overall, Smiths Lake offers reliable seasonal swimming, with moderate water temperatures and sheltered conditions that suit casual, low-key freshwater recreation.