Climate Risk Assessment for Morgan, SA

Morgan, South Australia· Mid Murray Council· 5320
Medium Risk
Updated Mar 2026

Morgan is a town in South Australia located on the Murray River. It faces moderate risks from flooding and heatwaves, which are projected to increase in the future. Bushfire risk is relatively low.

Overall Risk Score

5.2/10
Medium

Confidence: Medium

Hazard Breakdown

Flood
6.5
Bushfire
3.0
Heat
6.0
Coastal
1.0

Detailed Hazard Analysis

heat Risk

6.0/10

Morgan experiences high temperatures during summer, leading to a moderate risk of heatwaves and heat stress.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Rising average temperatures
  • ·More frequent heatwaves

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

6.5

2050

7.0

Data source

flood Risk

6.5/10

Morgan faces a moderate risk of flooding due to its proximity to the Murray River. Riverine flooding can occur during periods of heavy rainfall upstream.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Increased rainfall intensity
  • ·Upstream land use changes

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

7.0

2050

7.5

Data source

coastal Risk

1.0/10

As an inland suburb, Morgan has a negligible risk associated with coastal hazards.

Projections (RCP2.6)

2030

1.0

2050

1.0

Data source

bushfire Risk

3.0/10

The risk of bushfire in Morgan is relatively low compared to other regions in South Australia, but still present due to surrounding vegetation.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Dry vegetation
  • ·Hot, dry winds

Projections (RCP4.5)

2030

3.2

2050

3.5

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 a decrease in value.

Buyer Checklist

  • 1.Check flood history of the property.
  • 2.Assess the property's vulnerability to heatwaves.
  • 3.Ensure adequate insurance coverage.
  • 4.Consider energy efficiency measures.

Local Climate Evidence

Flood Evidence

Nearest Waterway
Murray River
Elevation Range
20-30m
Flood Zone
Areas adjacent to the Murray River are prone to flooding.

Historical flood events have impacted properties close to the riverbank.

View council flood map

Bushfire Evidence

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

Check CFS website for current fire restrictions.

Heat Evidence

Avg January Max Temp
32.5°C
Heat Stress Days/Year
3 days

Elderly residents are particularly vulnerable during heatwaves.

Coastal Evidence

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

Historical Climate Events

1956
floodMajor

The 1956 Murray River flood caused widespread inundation in Morgan.

Source
2013
heatwaveModerate

A prolonged heatwave in January 2013 resulted in heat stress and health impacts.

Source
2016
floodModerate

High river flows led to minor flooding in low-lying areas of Morgan.

Source
2019
heatwaveModerate

Another significant heatwave event impacted the region.

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)
bushfire3.03.2(+0.2)3.5(+0.5)
heat6.06.8(+0.8)7.5(+1.5)
coastal1.01.01.0

By 2030, Morgan is projected to experience increased flood risk due to more intense rainfall events and higher average temperatures, leading to more frequent and severe heatwaves.

CSIRO Climate Projections

Adaptation Recommendations

Improve Flood Defenses

Near-term

Invest in levees and other flood protection infrastructure to protect properties from riverine flooding.

Est. cost: High

Learn more

Develop a Heat Action Plan

Immediate

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

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Enhance Bushfire Preparedness

Long-term

Conduct regular bushfire risk assessments and implement vegetation management programs to reduce the risk of bushfires.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Promote Water Conservation

Near-term

Encourage water conservation measures to reduce water demand and ensure water security during droughts.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

About Morgan's Climate Risk Profile

Morgan, South Australia, is situated on the banks of the Murray River, making it susceptible to riverine flooding. Climate change projections indicate an increase in the frequency and intensity of heavy rainfall events, potentially exacerbating flood risks in the region.

Heatwaves are another significant concern for Morgan. The town experiences high temperatures during the summer months, and climate change is expected to lead to even hotter and more frequent heatwaves, posing risks to vulnerable populations.

While the risk of bushfire is lower compared to other parts of South Australia, it is still a factor to consider, especially during dry periods. Maintaining vegetation and implementing fire safety measures are important.

Coastal risks are minimal due to Morgan's inland location. However, the broader impacts of climate change, such as disruptions to supply chains and economic activity, could indirectly affect the town. Adaptation measures are needed to mitigate these risks and build resilience.

Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · SA Department for Environment and Water · CFS

Local Government Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main climate change risks for Morgan?

The main climate change risks for Morgan are increased flooding due to more intense rainfall events and more frequent and severe heatwaves.

How will climate change affect property values in Morgan?

Properties in flood-prone areas may experience a decrease in value due to increased flood risk. Insurance premiums may also increase.

What is the council doing to address climate change in Morgan?

The Mid Murray Council is developing climate adaptation strategies and working to improve flood defenses and promote water conservation.

Where can I find information about flood risks in Morgan?

You can find information about flood risks on the Mid Murray Council website and the South Australian Department for Environment and Water website.

How can I prepare for heatwaves in Morgan?

Stay hydrated, stay indoors during the hottest part of the day, and check on vulnerable neighbors and family members.

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