Lake Alabaster – current water temperature and swimming conditions
This page provides information about the current water temperature at Lake Alabaster in Southland Region. 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 Alabaster today is 18°C.
Water Temperature in Lake Alabaster: 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 Lake Alabaster have been on a steady rise over the past month and have continued to climb over the last week.
According to our forecast, the water temperature in Lake Alabaster will be 12.7°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 22 | 17.1°C | 12.0°C | |
| Mar 23 | 17.2°C | 12.0°C | |
| Mar 24 | 17.1°C | 12.0°C | |
| Mar 25 | 17.1°C | 12.0°C | |
| Mar 26 | 17.4°C | 12.0°C | |
| Mar 27 | 17.4°C | 12.0°C | |
| Mar 28 | 17.6°C | 12.0°C | |
| Mar 29 | 17.6°C | 12.0°C | |
| Mar 30 | 17.6°C | 12.0°C | 17.6°C |
| Mar 31 | 12.0°C | 16.9°C | |
| Apr 1 | 12.0°C | 16.2°C | |
| Apr 2 | 12.0°C | 15.5°C | |
| Apr 3 | 12.0°C | 14.8°C | |
| Apr 4 | 12.0°C | 14.1°C | |
| Apr 5 | 12.0°C | 13.4°C | |
| Apr 6 | 12.0°C | 12.7°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 | 9°C | 16°C | 22°C |
| February | 10°C | 15°C | 20°C |
| March | 6°C | 12°C | 18°C |
| April | 5°C | 9°C | 13°C |
| May | 2°C | 6°C | 10°C |
| June | 0°C | 4°C | 8°C |
| July | 0°C | 4°C | 7°C |
| August | 0°C | 4°C | 7°C |
| September | 2°C | 7°C | 12°C |
| October | 4°C | 9°C | 13°C |
| November | 6°C | 12°C | 17°C |
| December | 8°C | 13°C | 18°C |
Lake Alabaster: Weather Forecast
March 30
March 31
April 1
April 2
April 3
Location & Local Information
Lake Alabaster is a remote freshwater lake in northern Fiordland, Southland Region, surrounded by steep forested slopes and high rainfall catchments. Its location within a cool, alpine-influenced environment means water temperatures remain low for most of the year. During summer, from December to February, surface temperatures generally range between 11°C and 15°C, occasionally rising a little higher during settled weather. In spring and autumn, the lake typically sits between 7°C and 12°C. Through winter, temperatures often fall to around 4°C to 7°C, reflecting cold air temperatures and frequent rainfall typical of Fiordland.
Swimming Conditions
Swimming is not prohibited, but it is uncommon due to the lake’s isolation, lack of facilities and consistently cool water. Even in mid-summer, the temperature feels brisk, and immersion is usually limited to short dips rather than extended swimming. The shoreline is natural and undeveloped, with no designated beaches or lifeguard services. Access is generally by boat or backcountry routes, which further limits recreational use. While experienced outdoors enthusiasts may take a refreshing plunge on a warm day, Lake Alabaster is better known for fishing, tramping and wilderness scenery than for swimming, particularly given the cold water and changeable Fiordland weather conditions.