The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 6 letter word PLAYAS
P
L
A
Y
A
S
Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "temporary lakes" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case temporary lakes = playas.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does PLAYAS mean?
PLAYAS noun- A level area which habitually fills with water that evaporates entirely.
- A dude (an informal term of address or general term to describe a person, typically male).
- A player (someone who plays the field, or has prowess in gaining romantic and sexual relationships).