Climate Risk Assessment: Moura, QLD

Moura, Queensland· Banana· 4718
Medium Risk
Updated Mar 2026

Moura faces moderate risks from flooding and heatwaves, with bushfire risk being relatively lower. Climate change is expected to exacerbate these risks, particularly in terms of increased flooding and more frequent heat events. Residents should prepare for these potential impacts.

Overall Risk Score

52/100
Medium

Confidence: Medium

Hazard Breakdown

Flood
6.0
Bushfire
4.0
Heat
6.0
Coastal
1.0

Climate Hazard Breakdown for Moura

increasing

Flood

60/100

Moura faces a moderate risk of flooding due to its proximity to the Dawson River and surrounding waterways. Historical flood events indicate potential for inundation, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall.

Key drivers:

  • ·Increased rainfall intensity
  • ·Riverine flooding
stable

Bushfire

40/100

The bushfire risk in Moura is moderate, with surrounding grasslands and bushland posing a potential threat during dry periods. While not as severe as some other regions, proactive measures are still necessary.

Key drivers:

  • ·Dry vegetation
  • ·High temperatures
increasing

Heat

60/100

Moura experiences a high risk of heatwaves, with increasing average temperatures and more frequent extreme heat events projected for the future. This poses a significant health risk to vulnerable populations.

Key drivers:

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

Coastal

10/100

As an inland suburb, Moura has a negligible risk associated with coastal hazards such as sea level rise and coastal erosion.

Key drivers:

  • ·Distance from the coast
increasing

Wind

35/100

Notable wind risk — tropical cyclone wind fields

increasing

Storm

39/100

Notable storm risk — cyclones and thunderstorms

stable

Social

24/100

Moderate social stability — growth regions

increasing

Energy

42/100

Elevated energy costs — high cooling demand

In-Depth Climate Risk Guides for Moura

Detailed Hazard Analysis

heat Risk

60/100

Moura experiences a high risk of heatwaves, with increasing average temperatures and more frequent extreme heat events projected for the future. This poses a significant health risk to vulnerable populations.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Rising global temperatures
  • ·Urban heat island effect
  • ·Reduced vegetation cover

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

6.8

2050

7.5

Data source

flood Risk

60/100

Moura faces a moderate risk of flooding due to its proximity to the Dawson River and surrounding waterways. Historical flood events indicate potential for inundation, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Increased rainfall intensity
  • ·Riverine flooding
  • ·Inadequate drainage infrastructure

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

6.5

2050

7.0

Data source

coastal Risk

10/100

As an inland suburb, Moura has a negligible risk associated with coastal hazards such as sea level rise and coastal erosion.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Distance from the coast

Projections (RCP2.6)

2030

1.0

2050

1.0

Data source

bushfire Risk

40/100

The bushfire risk in Moura is moderate, with surrounding grasslands and bushland posing a potential threat during dry periods. While not as severe as some other regions, proactive measures are still necessary.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Dry vegetation
  • ·High temperatures
  • ·Windy conditions

Projections (RCP4.5)

2030

4.2

2050

4.5

Data source

What This Means for Property Owners

Insurance Outlook

Insurance premiums may increase due to flood and heatwave risks.

Price Impact

Properties in flood-prone areas may experience price stagnation or decline.

Buyer Checklist

  • 1.Check flood maps and historical flood data.
  • 2.Assess property's vulnerability to heatwaves.
  • 3.Ensure adequate insurance coverage.
  • 4.Consider potential impacts of climate change on property value.

Local Climate Evidence

Flood Evidence

Nearest Waterway
Dawson River
Elevation Range
Varies from 150m to 200m
Flood Zone
Areas near the Dawson River are prone to flooding.

Historical flood data indicates that properties close to the river are at higher risk.

View council flood map

Bushfire Evidence

Distance to Bushland
Within 5km of significant bushland areas
Planning Overlay
Refer to the Queensland Bushfire Prone Area Map
Bushfire Prone Area
Yes

Residents should maintain firebreaks and be aware of fire danger ratings.

Heat Evidence

Avg January Max Temp
34.5°C
Heat Stress Days/Year
5 days

Heatwaves are becoming more frequent and intense in the region.

Coastal Evidence

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

Historical Climate Events

2010
floodMajor

Major flooding of the Dawson River caused widespread inundation in Moura, affecting homes, businesses, and infrastructure.

Source
2011
floodModerate

Moderate flooding impacted low-lying areas of Moura following heavy rainfall in the Dawson River catchment.

Source
2018
heatwaveModerate

A prolonged heatwave in Central Queensland led to increased hospital admissions and strain on local resources in Moura.

Source
2019
bushfireMinor

Bushfires near Moura prompted evacuation warnings and required firefighting efforts to protect properties.

Source

Climate Outlook to 2050

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

HazardToday20302050
flood606.5(+0.5)7.0(+1.0)
bushfire404.2(+0.2)4.3(+0.3)
heat606.8(+0.8)7.5(+1.5)
coastal101.01.0

By 2030, Moura is projected to experience increased flooding and more frequent heatwaves under a high emissions scenario. Bushfire risk may also slightly increase.

CSIRO Climate Projections

Adaptation Recommendations

Improve Flood Defenses

Near-term

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

Est. cost: High

Learn more

Develop Heat Action Plan

Immediate

Implement a comprehensive heat action plan to protect vulnerable populations during heatwaves, including cooling centers and public awareness campaigns.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Enhance Bushfire Preparedness

Near-term

Promote bushfire preparedness through community education programs, vegetation management, and improved access to firefighting resources.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Strengthen Community Resilience

Long-term

Foster community resilience through initiatives that promote social connectedness, emergency preparedness, and access to essential services.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

About Moura's Climate Risk Profile

Moura, located in Central Queensland, is susceptible to various climate-related risks, primarily flooding and heatwaves. The Dawson River and its tributaries pose a significant flood risk, especially during periods of heavy rainfall. Historical flood events have caused considerable damage to property and infrastructure in the region.

Rising temperatures and more frequent heatwaves are also a growing concern for Moura. The increasing average temperatures can lead to heat stress, particularly among vulnerable populations such as the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions. The urban heat island effect may further exacerbate these impacts.

While bushfire risk is moderate compared to other regions, the surrounding grasslands and bushland can still pose a threat during dry periods. Proactive measures, such as maintaining vegetation around properties and adhering to fire safety guidelines, are essential to mitigate this risk.

Coastal risks are minimal due to Moura's inland location. However, the broader impacts of climate change, such as disruptions to supply chains and economic activities, could indirectly affect the region. Adaptation measures and community resilience initiatives are crucial to address these challenges and ensure a sustainable future for Moura.

Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · Queensland Rural Fire Service · Banana Shire Council

Local Government Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main climate risks facing Moura?

Moura is primarily at risk from flooding due to the Dawson River and heatwaves due to rising temperatures. Bushfire risk is moderate, while coastal risks are negligible.

How is the local council addressing climate change?

The Banana Shire Council is developing and implementing strategies to mitigate and adapt to climate change, including flood mitigation measures and emergency preparedness plans.

What can residents do to prepare for floods?

Residents can prepare for floods by staying informed about flood warnings, having an emergency plan, and protecting their properties with flood-proofing measures.

How can I stay safe during a heatwave?

During a heatwave, it's important to stay hydrated, stay cool, and avoid strenuous activities. Check on vulnerable neighbors and seek medical attention if you experience heat stress symptoms.

Where can I find more information about bushfire safety?

More information about bushfire safety can be found on the Queensland Rural Fire Service website and through local community education programs.

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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