ClimateNest
ClimateNest
PROPERTY ANALYTICS

Climate Risk Profile: Atherton, QLD

Atherton, Queensland· UNKNOWN
Medium Risk
Updated Mar 2026

Atherton faces increasing risks from flooding and heatwaves due to climate change. Bushfire risk is also a concern. Coastal risks are minimal due to its inland location.

Overall Risk Score

5.8/10
Medium

Confidence: Medium

Hazard Breakdown

Flood
6.5
Bushfire
4.2
Heat
7.0
Coastal
1.5

Detailed Hazard Analysis

heat Risk

7.0/10

Atherton experiences high temperatures, particularly in summer. Climate change is projected to increase the frequency and intensity of heatwaves.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Rising average temperatures
  • ·Increased frequency of heatwaves
  • ·Urban heat island effect

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

7.5

2050

8.0

Data source

flood Risk

6.5/10

Atherton is located near several waterways and experiences moderate rainfall, increasing its flood risk. Climate change is expected to intensify rainfall events.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Increased rainfall intensity
  • ·Proximity to waterways
  • ·Urban development

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

7.0

2050

7.5

Data source

coastal Risk

1.5/10

Atherton is located inland and has a low coastal risk. Sea level rise and coastal erosion are not significant concerns for this suburb.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Distance from the coast

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

1.5

2050

1.5

Data source

bushfire Risk

4.2/10

Atherton has a moderate bushfire risk due to surrounding vegetation. Drier conditions and higher temperatures are expected to increase this risk.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Increased temperatures
  • ·Drier conditions
  • ·Vegetation density

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

4.7

2050

5.2

Data source

What This Means for Property Owners

Insurance Outlook

Insurance premiums may increase due to flood and bushfire risks.

Price Impact

Properties in flood-prone areas may experience price reductions.

Buyer Checklist

  • 1.Check flood maps and historical flood data.
  • 2.Assess bushfire risk and vegetation management.
  • 3.Consider energy efficiency and cooling options.
  • 4.Review insurance coverage for climate-related events.

Local Climate Evidence

Flood Evidence

Nearest Waterway
Barron River
Elevation Range
750-800m
Flood Zone
Areas near the Barron River are susceptible to flooding.

Historical flood events have impacted low-lying areas in Atherton.

View council flood map

Bushfire Evidence

Distance to Bushland
Adjacent to bushland areas.
Planning Overlay
Refer to QFES bushfire prone area maps.
Bushfire Prone Area
Yes

Areas with dense vegetation are at higher risk.

Heat Evidence

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

Elderly and vulnerable populations are at higher risk during heatwaves.

Coastal Evidence

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

Historical Climate Events

2011
floodModerate

Widespread flooding in Queensland, including Atherton, caused significant damage to infrastructure and property.

Source
2018
bushfireModerate

Bushfires in the region caused property damage and evacuations.

Source
2019
heatwaveModerate

Record-breaking temperatures across Queensland, including Atherton, led to heat stress and health concerns.

Source
2023
floodMinor

Localized flooding in Atherton due to heavy rainfall.

Source

Climate Outlook to 2050

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

HazardToday20302050
flood6.57.0(+0.5)7.5(+1.0)
bushfire4.24.5(+0.3)4.8(+0.6)
heat7.07.7(+0.7)8.5(+1.5)
coastal1.51.51.5

By 2030, Atherton is projected to experience more frequent and intense heatwaves, increased rainfall leading to flooding, and a higher risk of bushfires. Adaptation measures are needed to mitigate these impacts.

CSIRO Climate Projections

Adaptation Recommendations

Improve Flood Defenses

Near-term

Upgrade drainage infrastructure and implement flood-resistant building codes to reduce flood damage.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Bushfire Preparedness

Near-term

Implement vegetation management programs, create firebreaks, and educate residents about bushfire safety.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

Heatwave Action Plan

Immediate

Develop a heatwave action plan to protect vulnerable populations, including cooling centers and public awareness campaigns.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

Water Conservation

Long-term

Promote water conservation measures to address potential water scarcity due to climate change.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

Climate Resilient Infrastructure

Long-term

Invest in infrastructure that is resilient to climate change impacts, such as extreme weather events and rising temperatures.

Est. cost: High

Learn more

About Atherton's Climate Risk Profile

Atherton, Queensland, is facing increasing climate-related challenges. The primary concerns are rising temperatures, increased rainfall intensity leading to flooding, and a heightened risk of bushfires. While the suburb is not directly exposed to coastal hazards, the broader regional impacts of climate change will still be felt.

Flooding is a significant concern for Atherton due to its proximity to waterways and the projected increase in heavy rainfall events. The local council is working to manage flood risks through improved drainage and land-use planning. Residents should be aware of flood warnings and take necessary precautions.

Bushfire risk is also increasing due to drier conditions and higher temperatures. Maintaining vegetation around properties and adhering to fire safety guidelines are crucial for mitigating this risk. The Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) provides resources and support for bushfire preparedness.

Heatwaves are becoming more frequent and intense, posing a health risk to vulnerable populations. Staying hydrated, seeking cooler environments, and checking on neighbors are important strategies for coping with extreme heat. The local council is implementing measures to reduce the urban heat island effect.

Overall, Atherton needs to proactively adapt to the changing climate to protect its community and infrastructure. This includes investing in climate-resilient infrastructure, promoting sustainable land management practices, and raising awareness about climate risks.

Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · QFES · Tablelands Regional Council

Local Government Resources

Tablelands Regional Council

Climate StrategyFlood MapsEmergency Services

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main climate change risks in Atherton?

The main climate change risks in Atherton are increased flooding, more frequent and intense heatwaves, and a higher risk of bushfires.

How is the local council addressing climate change?

The Tablelands Regional Council is working to manage flood risks, promote sustainable land management practices, and implement measures to reduce the urban heat island effect.

What can residents do to prepare for climate change impacts?

Residents can prepare by checking flood maps, assessing bushfire risk, considering energy efficiency, and reviewing insurance coverage.

Where can I find information about emergency services in Atherton?

Information about emergency services can be found on the Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) website.

Are there any cooling centers in Atherton during heatwaves?

The Tablelands Regional Council may establish cooling centers during heatwaves. Check the council website for updates.

How will climate change affect property values in Atherton?

Properties in flood-prone areas may experience price reductions. Overall, climate change impacts could affect property values.

Get a Property-Specific Report

This suburb assessment covers the area. For a precise address-level climate risk report for any specific property in Atherton, use our analysis tool.

Analyse a Property in Atherton →

Analyse Your Property Now

Enter your address below for an instant climate risk assessment covering flood, bushfire, and sea level rise and more.

Free instant preview · Full report from A$69 · Australian addresses only