Climate Risk in Murrumbateman, New South Wales

Murrumbateman, New South Wales· Yass Valley Council· 2582
Medium Risk
Updated May 2026

Murrumbateman faces moderate risks from flooding, bushfires, and heatwaves. Climate change is expected to exacerbate these risks, particularly increasing the intensity of heatwaves and flooding events. Residents should prepare for more frequent extreme weather events.

Overall Risk Score

52/100
Medium

Confidence: Medium

Hazard Breakdown

Flood
6.5
Bushfire
4.8
Heat
5.0
Coastal
1.0

Climate Hazard Breakdown for Murrumbateman

increasing

Flood

65/100

Murrumbateman faces a moderate risk of flooding due to its proximity to the Murrumbidgee River and local creeks. Intense rainfall events can cause these waterways to overflow, impacting low-lying areas.

Key drivers:

  • ·Increased rainfall intensity
  • ·Urban development increasing runoff
stable

Bushfire

48/100

The area surrounding Murrumbateman has a moderate bushfire risk, particularly during hot and dry summer months. Grasslands and nearby forested areas contribute to the potential for fire spread.

Key drivers:

  • ·Dry vegetation
  • ·High temperatures
increasing

Heat

50/100

Murrumbateman is experiencing an increase in the frequency and intensity of heatwaves. This poses a risk to vulnerable populations, including the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions.

Key drivers:

  • ·Rising global temperatures
  • ·Urban heat island effect
stable

Coastal

10/100

Murrumbateman is located inland and does not face any direct coastal risks such as sea level rise or coastal erosion.

stable

Wind

28/100

Moderate wind risk — East Coast Lows and gust fronts

stable

Storm

39/100

Moderate storm risk — severe thunderstorms and hail

stable

Social

21/100

Moderate social stability — mixed urban density

increasing

Energy

35/100

Moderate energy costs — climate-driven cooling demand

In-Depth Climate Risk Guides for Murrumbateman

Detailed Hazard Analysis

heat Risk

50/100

Murrumbateman is experiencing an increase in the frequency and intensity of heatwaves. This poses a risk to vulnerable populations, including the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Rising global temperatures
  • ·Urban heat island effect

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

5.5

2050

6.0

Data source

flood Risk

65/100

Murrumbateman faces a moderate risk of flooding due to its proximity to the Murrumbidgee River and local creeks. Intense rainfall events can cause these waterways to overflow, impacting low-lying areas.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Increased rainfall intensity
  • ·Urban development increasing runoff

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

7.0

2050

7.5

Data source

coastal Risk

10/100

Murrumbateman is located inland and does not face any direct coastal risks such as sea level rise or coastal erosion.

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

1.0

2050

1.0

Data source

bushfire Risk

48/100

The area surrounding Murrumbateman has a moderate bushfire risk, particularly during hot and dry summer months. Grasslands and nearby forested areas contribute to the potential for fire spread.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Dry vegetation
  • ·High temperatures
  • ·Wind

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

5.0

2050

5.2

Data source

What This Means for Property Owners

Insurance Outlook

Insurance premiums are likely to increase due to the rising risks of flooding and bushfires.

Price Impact

Properties in flood-prone or bushfire-prone areas may experience a decrease in value.

Buyer Checklist

  • 1.Check flood maps and bushfire-prone area designations.
  • 2.Assess the property's vulnerability to heatwaves.
  • 3.Obtain comprehensive insurance coverage.
  • 4.Consider the long-term climate risks when making a purchase decision.

Local Climate Evidence

Flood Evidence

Nearest Waterway
Murrumbidgee River
Elevation Range
520-600m
Flood Zone
Areas near the Murrumbidgee River are designated as flood zones.

Historical flood data indicates that the Murrumbidgee River has overflowed its banks on several occasions, impacting properties in low-lying areas of Murrumbateman.

View council flood map

Bushfire Evidence

Distance to Bushland
Within 1km of significant bushland areas.
Planning Overlay
RFS Bushfire Prone Land Overlay applies to parts of Murrumbateman.
Bushfire Prone Area
Yes

The western and southern parts of Murrumbateman are considered to be at higher risk due to their proximity to dense vegetation.

Heat Evidence

Avg January Max Temp
30.5°C
Heat Stress Days/Year
3 days

The number of days exceeding 35°C is projected to increase in the coming decades, exacerbating heat stress risks.

Coastal Evidence

Distance to Coast
150 km
Sea Level Rise Exposure
Not applicable.
Erosion Risk
Not applicable.

Historical Climate Events

2010
floodModerate

The Murrumbidgee River experienced significant flooding, impacting low-lying areas of Murrumbateman and disrupting transportation.

Source
2017
bushfireMinor

A bushfire near Murrumbateman threatened properties, requiring the deployment of fire crews and aerial support.

Source
2019
heatwaveModerate

Murrumbateman experienced a prolonged heatwave with temperatures exceeding 40°C for several consecutive days, placing strain on infrastructure and public health.

Source
2022
floodModerate

Heavy rainfall caused localized flooding in Murrumbateman, impacting roads and some residential areas.

Source

Climate Outlook to 2050

Projections based on CSIRO and BOM climate modelling. Scenario: RCP8.5

HazardToday20302050
flood656.8(+0.3)7.0(+0.5)
bushfire485.0(+0.2)5.1(+0.3)
heat505.5(+0.5)6.0(+1.0)
coastal101.01.0

By 2030, Murrumbateman is projected to experience an increase in the frequency and intensity of heatwaves and flooding events. Bushfire risk is also expected to rise slightly due to drier conditions.

CSIRO Climate Projections

Adaptation Recommendations

Improve Flood Defenses

Near-term

Invest in infrastructure to mitigate flood risks, such as levees, drainage improvements, and flood-proofing of buildings.

Est. cost: High

Learn more

Enhance Bushfire Preparedness

Near-term

Implement bushfire mitigation measures, such as vegetation management, fire breaks, and community education programs.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Develop a Heatwave Management Plan

Immediate

Create a plan to protect vulnerable populations during heatwaves, including establishing cooling centers and providing public health advice.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

Promote Water Conservation

Long-term

Encourage water conservation practices to reduce water stress during droughts and heatwaves.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

About Murrumbateman's Climate Risk Profile

Murrumbateman, located in the Yass Valley of New South Wales, is a growing rural community known for its wineries and agricultural activities. The region's climate is characterized by warm summers and cool winters, with rainfall distributed throughout the year.

However, Murrumbateman is increasingly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. Flooding is a significant concern due to the proximity of the Murrumbidgee River and local creeks. Intense rainfall events can lead to rapid rises in water levels, inundating low-lying areas and disrupting transportation networks.

Bushfire risk is also a factor, particularly during the dry summer months. The surrounding grasslands and forested areas provide ample fuel for fires to spread, posing a threat to homes and properties. Heatwaves are becoming more frequent and intense, placing stress on the community's infrastructure and the health of vulnerable residents.

While Murrumbateman is not directly exposed to coastal hazards, the broader impacts of climate change, such as disruptions to supply chains and increased migration from coastal areas, could indirectly affect the community. Proactive adaptation measures are essential to build resilience and ensure the long-term sustainability of Murrumbateman.

Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · NSW SES · NSW RFS · Yass Valley Council

Local Government Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main climate risks facing Murrumbateman?

Murrumbateman is primarily at risk from flooding, bushfires, and heatwaves. These risks are expected to increase with climate change.

How can I prepare my property for flooding?

Consider flood-proofing measures, such as raising electrical outlets and installing flood barriers. Keep gutters and drains clear of debris.

What should I do during a heatwave?

Stay indoors in air-conditioned environments, drink plenty of water, and avoid strenuous activities. Check on vulnerable neighbors and family members.

How can I protect my home from bushfires?

Maintain a clear area around your home, remove flammable materials, and have a bushfire survival plan in place.

Where can I find more information about climate change impacts in Murrumbateman?

Consult the Yass Valley Council website, the NSW Office of Environment and Heritage, and the Bureau of Meteorology for the latest information and resources.

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What A$69 could save you from

$7.2B
2022 insured disaster losses*
$300B+
climate risk to property by 2050*
30-120%
insurance premium increases in high-risk areas*

*Industry sources: ICA, APRA, RBA

Full report from A$69 · Australian addresses only · 8 hazard scores · Insurance trajectory · 2030 & 2050 projections