Climate Risk in Mundingburra, QLD

Mundingburra, Queensland· Townsville· 4812
Medium Risk
Updated Apr 2026

Mundingburra faces moderate risks from flooding, heatwaves, and coastal hazards. Climate change is expected to exacerbate these risks, particularly in the coming decades. Residents should prepare for more frequent and intense extreme weather events.

Overall Risk Score

58/100
Medium

Confidence: Medium

Hazard Breakdown

Flood
6.5
Bushfire
3.2
Heat
7.0
Coastal
6.0

Climate Hazard Breakdown for Mundingburra

increasing

Flood

65/100

Mundingburra faces a moderate risk of flooding due to its proximity to Ross River and other waterways. Intense rainfall events can lead to riverine and flash flooding.

Key drivers:

  • ·Increased rainfall intensity
  • ·Urban development
stable

Bushfire

32/100

The bushfire risk in Mundingburra is relatively low, but some areas near bushland may be susceptible. Increased temperatures and dry conditions can elevate the risk during the fire season.

Key drivers:

  • ·Dry vegetation
  • ·Increased temperatures
increasing

Heat

70/100

Mundingburra experiences high temperatures, particularly during the summer months. Climate change is expected to increase the frequency and intensity of heatwaves, posing a risk to vulnerable populations.

Key drivers:

  • ·Climate change
  • ·Urban heat island effect
increasing

Coastal

60/100

Mundingburra is located inland, but is still indirectly affected by coastal hazards. Sea level rise and storm surges can impact infrastructure and ecosystems in nearby coastal areas, with knock-on effects for Mundingburra.

Key drivers:

  • ·Sea level rise
  • ·Increased storm intensity
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 Mundingburra

Detailed Hazard Analysis

heat Risk

70/100

Mundingburra experiences high temperatures, particularly during the summer months. Climate change is expected to increase the frequency and intensity of heatwaves, posing a risk to vulnerable populations.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Climate change
  • ·Urban heat island effect
  • ·Decreased vegetation cover

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

7.5

2050

8.0

Data source

flood Risk

65/100

Mundingburra faces a moderate risk of flooding due to its proximity to Ross River and other waterways. Intense rainfall events can lead to riverine and flash flooding.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Increased rainfall intensity
  • ·Urban development
  • ·Climate change

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

7.0

2050

7.5

Data source

coastal Risk

60/100

Mundingburra is located inland, but is still indirectly affected by coastal hazards. Sea level rise and storm surges can impact infrastructure and ecosystems in nearby coastal areas, with knock-on effects for Mundingburra.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Sea level rise
  • ·Increased storm intensity
  • ·Coastal erosion

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

6.3

2050

6.6

Data source

bushfire Risk

32/100

The bushfire risk in Mundingburra is relatively low, but some areas near bushland may be susceptible. Increased temperatures and dry conditions can elevate the risk during the fire season.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Dry vegetation
  • ·Increased temperatures
  • ·Wind patterns

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

3.5

2050

3.8

Data source

What This Means for Property Owners

Insurance Outlook

Insurance premiums may increase due to flood and cyclone risks.

Price Impact

Properties in flood-prone areas may experience price fluctuations.

Buyer Checklist

  • 1.Check flood maps and historical flood data.
  • 2.Assess the property's vulnerability to heatwaves.
  • 3.Inquire about insurance costs and coverage.
  • 4.Consider the potential impacts of sea level rise on nearby infrastructure.

Local Climate Evidence

Flood Evidence

Nearest Waterway
Ross River
Elevation Range
10-30 meters
Flood Zone
Areas near Ross River are designated as flood zones.

Historical flood events have impacted properties along the riverbanks.

View council flood map

Bushfire Evidence

Distance to Bushland
Some areas border bushland reserves.
Planning Overlay
Refer to the Queensland Bushfire Prone Area Map.
Bushfire Prone Area
Yes

Vegetation management is crucial in interface areas.

Heat Evidence

Avg January Max Temp
31.5°C
Heat Stress Days/Year
5 days

Urban areas experience higher temperatures due to the urban heat island effect.

Coastal Evidence

Distance to Coast
8 km
Sea Level Rise Exposure
Low-lying areas may be susceptible to sea level rise impacts.
Erosion Risk
Minimal erosion risk within the suburb itself.

Historical Climate Events

2019
floodMajor

The Townsville floods of 2019 caused widespread inundation, impacting many homes and businesses in Mundingburra.

Source
2018
heatwaveModerate

A prolonged heatwave in North Queensland led to increased hospital admissions and strain on infrastructure.

Source
1998
floodModerate

Significant flooding occurred in Townsville, affecting low-lying areas of Mundingburra.

Source
2023
stormMinor

A severe thunderstorm caused localized flooding and power outages in Mundingburra.

Source

Climate Outlook to 2050

Projections based on CSIRO and BOM climate modelling. Scenario: RCP4.5

HazardToday20302050
flood656.9(+0.4)7.5(+1.0)
bushfire323.3(+0.1)3.5(+0.3)
heat707.5(+0.5)8.5(+1.5)
coastal606.2(+0.2)6.6(+0.6)

Under a moderate emissions scenario, Mundingburra is projected to experience a slight increase in overall climate risk, with notable increases in flood and heatwave risks.

CSIRO Climate Projections

Adaptation Recommendations

Improve Flood Defenses

Near-term

Invest in flood barriers, levees, and improved drainage systems to protect properties from inundation.

Est. cost: High

Learn more

Enhance Heatwave Preparedness

Immediate

Develop a heatwave action plan, establish cooling centers, and promote public awareness of heat safety measures.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Strengthen Coastal Protection

Long-term

Implement coastal management strategies to protect against sea level rise and storm surges, including beach nourishment and dune restoration.

Est. cost: Very High

Learn more

Promote Water Conservation

Near-term

Encourage water-efficient landscaping, rainwater harvesting, and other water conservation measures to reduce water stress during droughts.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

About Mundingburra's Climate Risk Profile

Mundingburra, a suburb of Townsville, Queensland, is exposed to a range of climate-related risks. The most significant of these is flooding, due to the suburb's proximity to the Ross River and other waterways. Intense rainfall events can cause both riverine and flash flooding, impacting homes, businesses, and infrastructure.

Heatwaves are another major concern for Mundingburra. The suburb already experiences high temperatures during the summer months, and climate change is projected to increase the frequency and intensity of these events. This poses a particular risk to vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and those with chronic health conditions.

While Mundingburra is not directly on the coast, it is still indirectly affected by coastal hazards. Sea level rise and storm surges can impact infrastructure and ecosystems in nearby coastal areas, with knock-on effects for Mundingburra. These effects can include disruptions to transportation, supply chains, and essential services.

To mitigate these risks, it is important for residents and businesses in Mundingburra to take proactive steps to prepare for extreme weather events. This includes developing emergency plans, investing in flood protection measures, and taking steps to reduce their carbon footprint. The local council also has a role to play in implementing climate adaptation strategies and investing in infrastructure that is resilient to climate change.

Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · Queensland Fire and Emergency Services

Local Government Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main climate risks facing Mundingburra?

Mundingburra is primarily at risk from flooding, heatwaves, and coastal hazards. Climate change is expected to increase the frequency and intensity of these events.

How can I prepare my home for a flood?

Consider installing flood barriers, elevating appliances, and storing valuables in a safe location. Also, ensure you have adequate insurance coverage.

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 is the Townsville City Council addressing climate change?

The council is implementing various climate adaptation and mitigation strategies, including investing in flood protection infrastructure and promoting sustainable development practices. Refer to the council's website for more details.

Where can I find more information about emergency preparedness?

Visit the Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES) website for resources and information on preparing for various emergencies, including floods, bushfires, and cyclones.

Get your property's risk report

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

Check Your flood Risk Now

Check Mundingburra's specific flood risk and see how it compares to nearby suburbs. Enter your address for an instant risk assessment.

Free instant previewCSIRO-powered data

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