Climate Risk in Kingston On Murray, South Australia

Kingston On Murray, South Australia· 5331
Medium Risk
Updated Apr 2026

Kingston On Murray faces moderate climate risks, primarily from flooding and heatwaves. The suburb's proximity to the Murray River increases its vulnerability to riverine flooding, while rising temperatures pose a threat to residents during summer. Bushfire risk is present but relatively lower compared to other regions.

Overall Risk Score

52/100
Medium

Confidence: Medium

Hazard Breakdown

Flood
6.5
Bushfire
3.0
Heat
6.0
Coastal
1.0

Climate Hazard Breakdown for Kingston On Murray

increasing

Flood

65/100

Kingston On Murray is located near the Murray River and is susceptible to flooding, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall or upstream dam releases. Riverine flooding poses the primary risk.

Key drivers:

  • ·Increased rainfall intensity
  • ·Upstream water management practices
stable

Bushfire

30/100

The area around Kingston On Murray has some bushfire risk due to surrounding vegetation. While not as high as other regions, dry conditions can increase the likelihood of bushfires.

Key drivers:

  • ·Dry vegetation
  • ·Increased temperatures
increasing

Heat

60/100

Kingston On Murray experiences hot summers, with potential for heatwaves. Climate change is expected to increase the frequency and intensity of heat events.

Key drivers:

  • ·Climate change
  • ·Urban heat island effect (minor)
stable

Coastal

10/100

Kingston On Murray is not directly located on the coast, so coastal risks are minimal. Sea level rise and coastal erosion are not significant concerns for this suburb.

Key drivers:

  • ·Distance from coast
stable

Wind

28/100

Moderate wind risk — gusty northerly winds

stable

Storm

24/100

Moderate storm risk — occasional thunderstorms

stable

Social

21/100

Moderate social stability

increasing

Energy

35/100

Moderate energy costs — summer cooling

In-Depth Climate Risk Guides for Kingston On Murray

Detailed Hazard Analysis

heat Risk

60/100

Kingston On Murray experiences hot summers, with potential for heatwaves. Climate change is expected to increase the frequency and intensity of heat events.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Climate change
  • ·Urban heat island effect (minor)
  • ·Reduced vegetation cover

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

6.5

2050

7.0

Data source

flood Risk

65/100

Kingston On Murray is located near the Murray River and is susceptible to flooding, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall or upstream dam releases. Riverine flooding poses the primary risk.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Increased rainfall intensity
  • ·Upstream water management practices
  • ·Climate change

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

7.0

2050

7.5

Data source

coastal Risk

10/100

Kingston On Murray is not directly located on the coast, so coastal risks are minimal. Sea level rise and coastal erosion are not significant concerns for this suburb.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Distance from coast

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

1.0

2050

1.0

Data source

bushfire Risk

30/100

The area around Kingston On Murray has some bushfire risk due to surrounding vegetation. While not as high as other regions, dry conditions can increase the likelihood of bushfires.

Primary Drivers

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

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

3.5

2050

4.0

Data source

What This Means for Property Owners

Insurance Outlook

Insurance premiums may be affected by flood risk.

Price Impact

Properties in flood-prone areas may experience some price impact.

Buyer Checklist

  • 1.Check flood maps and historical flood data.
  • 2.Assess property's elevation and drainage.
  • 3.Inquire about insurance coverage for flood and bushfire.
  • 4.Consider energy efficiency upgrades to mitigate heat impacts.

Local Climate Evidence

Flood Evidence

Nearest Waterway
Murray River
Elevation Range
10-20m
Flood Zone
Areas adjacent to the Murray River are designated as flood zones.

Local flood studies have identified areas at risk of inundation during major flood events. The council provides information and resources to help residents prepare for and respond to floods.

View council flood map

Bushfire Evidence

Distance to Bushland
Within 5km of scrubland areas.
Planning Overlay
CFS Bushfire Prone Area Map
Bushfire Prone Area
Yes

Residents should maintain their properties to reduce fuel loads and be aware of fire danger ratings during the bushfire season.

Heat Evidence

Avg January Max Temp
33.5°C
Heat Stress Days/Year
5 days

The Bureau of Meteorology provides heatwave forecasts and warnings to help residents prepare for extreme heat events. Staying hydrated and seeking air-conditioned environments are important during heatwaves.

Coastal Evidence

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

Historical Climate Events

1956
floodMajor

The 1956 Murray River flood was one of the largest on record, causing widespread inundation and damage in Kingston On Murray.

Source
2013
floodModerate

Significant rainfall in the Murray-Darling Basin led to increased river flows and moderate flooding in Kingston On Murray.

Source
2019
heatwaveModerate

Kingston On Murray experienced a prolonged heatwave in January 2019, with temperatures exceeding 40°C for several consecutive days.

Source
2023
floodModerate

High rainfall in the Murray-Darling Basin led to increased river flows and moderate flooding in Kingston On Murray.

Source

Climate Outlook to 2050

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

HazardToday2030205020302050
flood656.8(+0.3)7.0(+0.5)6.9(+0.4)7.3(+0.8)
bushfire303.1(+0.1)3.2(+0.2)3.2(+0.2)3.4(+0.4)
heat606.4(+0.4)6.7(+0.7)6.6(+0.6)7.0(+1.0)
coastal101.01.01.01.0

Under a moderate emissions scenario, Kingston On Murray is projected to experience a slight increase in overall climate risk, primarily driven by increased flooding and heatwave intensity.

CSIRO Climate Projections

Adaptation Recommendations

Flood Mitigation Measures

Near-term

Implement flood mitigation measures, such as levees, flood barriers, and improved drainage systems, to protect properties and infrastructure from riverine flooding.

Est. cost: High

Learn more

Heatwave Preparedness Plan

Immediate

Develop and implement a heatwave preparedness plan to protect vulnerable populations during extreme heat events. This should include public awareness campaigns, cooling centers, and support for elderly and at-risk individuals.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Bushfire Risk Reduction

Near-term

Implement bushfire risk reduction measures, such as fuel reduction burns, vegetation management, and community education programs, to minimize the risk of bushfires impacting the suburb.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Water Conservation Strategies

Long-term

Promote water conservation strategies to reduce water demand and ensure water security during periods of drought and increased temperatures. This could include water restrictions, incentives for water-efficient appliances, and community education programs.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

About Kingston On Murray's Climate Risk Profile

Kingston On Murray, located in South Australia, is susceptible to several climate-related risks. The most significant threat is riverine flooding due to its location near the Murray River. Heavy rainfall events and upstream water releases can lead to inundation of low-lying areas, impacting properties and infrastructure.

Rising temperatures and heatwaves are another concern for Kingston On Murray. Summers are already hot, and climate change is expected to exacerbate this, leading to more frequent and intense heat events. This can pose health risks to vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and those with pre-existing conditions.

Bushfire risk is present in the surrounding areas, although it is not as severe as in other parts of South Australia. Dry vegetation and hot, windy conditions can increase the likelihood of bushfires, which could potentially threaten properties and livelihoods.

Coastal risks are minimal due to the suburb's inland location. Sea level rise and coastal erosion are not significant concerns for Kingston On Murray. However, the community should still be aware of broader climate change impacts and take steps to adapt to these changes.

Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · SA Department for Environment and Water · Loxton Waikerie District Council

Local Government Resources

Loxton Waikerie District Council

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main climate change risks for Kingston On Murray?

The main climate change risks for Kingston On Murray are flooding from the Murray River, increased heatwave frequency and intensity, and bushfire risk in surrounding areas.

How can I prepare my property for flooding in Kingston On Murray?

You can prepare your property for flooding by elevating valuable items, installing flood barriers, improving drainage, and having an emergency plan in place.

What should I do during a heatwave in Kingston On Murray?

During a heatwave, stay hydrated, seek air-conditioned environments, avoid strenuous activity, and check on vulnerable neighbors and family members.

How can I reduce my bushfire risk in Kingston On Murray?

You can reduce your bushfire risk by maintaining your property, clearing vegetation around your home, and being aware of fire danger ratings during the bushfire season.

Where can I find more information about climate change impacts in Kingston On Murray?

You can find more information about climate change impacts in Kingston On Murray from the Loxton Waikerie District Council, the South Australian Department for Environment and Water, and the Bureau of Meteorology.

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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