Lake Dora (Western Australia) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Lake DoraNgayartakujarra (Warnman) |
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Lake Dora as seen from outer space.
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Map of Lake Dora and Rudall River
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 Lake Dora
Location in Western Australia
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| Location | Pilbara, Western Australia |
| Coordinates | 22°03′S 122°57′E / 22.050°S 122.950°E |
| Type | Seasonal salt lake |
| Primary inflows | Rudall River |
| Basin countries | Australia |
| Surface elevation | 237 m (778 ft) |
Lake Dora, known as Ngayartakujarra in the local Wanman language, is a unique lake found in the Pilbara region of Western Australia. It's a "seasonal salt lake," meaning it only fills with water at certain times of the year, often after heavy rains. This special lake is located between two large desert areas: the Great Sandy Desert and the Gibson Desert.
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Discovering Lake Dora
Lake Dora is a fascinating natural feature. It's not like the lakes you might imagine, always full of water. Instead, it's a large, flat area that can become a shallow lake when enough rain falls. When it's dry, it looks like a vast, white salt pan.
Where is Lake Dora Located?
Lake Dora is in the Pilbara region, which is in the northwestern part of Western Australia. This area is known for its red earth, ancient landscapes, and rich mineral deposits. The lake sits right between two huge deserts: the Great Sandy Desert and the Gibson Desert. These deserts are vast, dry places with lots of sand dunes and unique plant life.
What is a Seasonal Salt Lake?
A seasonal salt lake is a lake that doesn't always have water. It fills up during the wet season or after big rainstorms. When the water evaporates, it leaves behind salt and other minerals, which is why it's called a "salt lake." The ground underneath is often clay, which helps hold the water when it does arrive.
The Rudall River Connection
The Rudall River is an important river that flows into Lake Dora. However, like the lake itself, the Rudall River doesn't always flow. It's an "intermittent" river, meaning it only flows after heavy rainfall. When the river does flow, it brings water to Lake Dora, helping to fill it up and create a temporary wetland environment.
Local Name and Significance
The local Wanman language name for Lake Dora is Ngayartakujarra. This name is important because it connects the lake to the Aboriginal people who have lived in this area for thousands of years. Their language and stories are deeply tied to the land and its features.
