Climate Risk in Upper Coomera, QLD

Upper Coomera, Queensland· Gold Coast· 4209
Medium Risk
Updated Mar 2026

Upper Coomera faces moderate risks from flooding and heatwaves, with bushfire risk also present. Climate change is expected to exacerbate these risks, particularly in relation to flooding and heat events. Residents should prepare for more frequent and intense extreme weather.

Overall Risk Score

5.8/10
Medium

Confidence: Medium

Hazard Breakdown

Flood
6.5
Bushfire
4.2
Heat
7.0
Coastal
1.0

Detailed Hazard Analysis

heat Risk

7.0/10

Upper Coomera experiences a high risk of heatwaves, with increasing average temperatures and more frequent extreme heat events.

Primary Drivers

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

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

7.5

2050

8.0

Data source

flood Risk

6.5/10

Upper Coomera faces a moderate risk of flooding due to its proximity to waterways and low-lying areas. Intense rainfall events can lead to riverine and flash flooding.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Increased rainfall intensity
  • ·Urban development reducing natural drainage
  • ·Climate change impacts

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

7.0

2050

7.5

Data source

coastal Risk

1.0/10

Upper Coomera has a low risk of coastal hazards due to its inland location. Sea level rise and coastal erosion are not significant concerns.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Distance from the coast

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

1.0

2050

1.0

Data source

bushfire Risk

4.2/10

The risk of bushfires in Upper Coomera is moderate, particularly in areas bordering bushland. Hot, dry conditions and strong winds can exacerbate the risk.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Dry vegetation
  • ·Increased frequency of heatwaves
  • ·Human ignition sources

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

4.5

2050

4.8

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 insurance costs.
  • 2.Assess bushfire risk if near bushland.
  • 3.Consider energy efficiency for heatwave resilience.
  • 4.Inquire about council climate adaptation plans.

Local Climate Evidence

Flood Evidence

Nearest Waterway
Coomera River
Elevation Range
5-30 meters
Flood Zone
Medium to High Risk

Areas near the Coomera River are most susceptible to flooding. Check council flood maps for specific property risks.

View council flood map

Bushfire Evidence

Distance to Bushland
Adjacent to Tamborine National Park
Planning Overlay
QFES Bushfire Prone Area Map
Bushfire Prone Area
Yes

Properties bordering bushland are at higher risk. Maintain fire breaks and clear vegetation around homes.

Heat Evidence

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

January is the hottest month, with average maximum temperatures exceeding 31 degrees Celsius. Heat stress events are becoming more frequent.

Coastal Evidence

Distance to Coast
15 km
Sea Level Rise Exposure
Low
Erosion Risk
Low

Historical Climate Events

2022
floodModerate

Major flooding occurred in the Coomera River after heavy rainfall, impacting low-lying areas of Upper Coomera.

Source
2020
stormModerate

Severe thunderstorms caused flash flooding and property damage in Upper Coomera.

Source
2019
bushfireMinor

A bushfire near Tamborine National Park threatened properties in Upper Coomera.

Source
2017
heatwaveModerate

Prolonged heatwave conditions led to increased hospital admissions for heat-related illnesses.

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)4.7(+0.5)
heat7.07.7(+0.7)8.5(+1.5)
coastal1.01.01.0

By 2030, Upper Coomera is projected to experience more frequent and intense heatwaves, increased flooding risk, and a slightly higher bushfire risk. Coastal risks remain low.

CSIRO Climate Projections

Adaptation Recommendations

Improve Flood Defenses

Near-term

Invest in improved drainage infrastructure and flood barriers to protect properties from rising floodwaters.

Est. cost: High

Learn more

Enhance Bushfire Preparedness

Near-term

Implement stricter building codes for fire resistance and promote community education on bushfire safety.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Develop Heat Action Plans

Immediate

Establish cooling centers and provide support for vulnerable residents during heatwaves.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

Promote Water Conservation

Long-term

Encourage water-wise gardening and implement water restrictions during dry periods to conserve water resources.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

Green Infrastructure Expansion

Long-term

Increase urban green spaces to combat the urban heat island effect and improve overall community resilience.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

About Upper Coomera's Climate Risk Profile

Upper Coomera, located in the northern part of the Gold Coast, is a growing residential area with a mix of housing types and natural landscapes. The suburb's climate is subtropical, characterized by warm, humid summers and mild, dry winters. However, this climate also brings the risk of various natural hazards.

Flooding is a significant concern in Upper Coomera, particularly in areas close to the Coomera River and its tributaries. Intense rainfall events can cause rapid rises in water levels, leading to property damage and disruption to infrastructure. Climate change is projected to increase the frequency and intensity of heavy rainfall, further exacerbating the risk of flooding.

Bushfires pose a moderate threat to Upper Coomera, especially in areas bordering bushland reserves. Hot, dry conditions and strong winds can create ideal conditions for bushfires to spread rapidly. While the area is not as heavily forested as some other parts of Queensland, the risk remains a concern for residents living near bushland.

Heatwaves are becoming more frequent and intense in Upper Coomera, posing a risk to vulnerable populations such as the elderly and those with chronic health conditions. Rising average temperatures and the urban heat island effect contribute to the increasing risk of heat-related illnesses. Residents need to take precautions to stay cool and hydrated during heatwaves.

Coastal hazards are not a major concern in Upper Coomera due to its inland location. However, the suburb is still indirectly affected by coastal processes such as sea level rise, which can impact the region's overall economy and environment.

Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · QFES · City of Gold Coast

Local Government Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main climate risks in Upper Coomera?

The main climate risks in Upper Coomera are flooding, heatwaves, and bushfires. Flooding is a concern due to the suburb's proximity to the Coomera River, while heatwaves are becoming more frequent and intense. Bushfire risk is present in areas bordering bushland.

How is the City of Gold Coast addressing climate change?

The City of Gold Coast has implemented various initiatives to address climate change, including developing a climate adaptation strategy, investing in flood mitigation infrastructure, and promoting sustainable development practices.

What can I do to prepare for flooding in Upper Coomera?

To prepare for flooding, you should check council flood maps to assess your property's risk, develop a flood emergency plan, and ensure you have adequate insurance coverage. Consider installing flood barriers and elevating valuable items.

How can I protect my home from bushfires?

To protect your home from bushfires, clear vegetation around your property, maintain fire breaks, install fire-resistant building materials, and have a bushfire survival plan in place. Stay informed about fire danger ratings and warnings.

What are the best ways to stay cool during a heatwave?

During a heatwave, stay indoors in air-conditioned environments, drink plenty of water, avoid strenuous activities, and check on vulnerable neighbors and family members. Visit cooling centers if available.

Is Upper Coomera a good place to invest in property considering climate change?

Upper Coomera can still be a good investment, but it's important to consider the climate risks. Properties in flood-prone areas may be less desirable, while those with good bushfire protection and energy efficiency may hold their value better. Conduct thorough due diligence before investing.

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