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PROPERTY ANALYTICS

Climate Risk Profile: Morwell, VIC

Morwell, Victoria· Latrobe City· 3840
Medium Risk
Updated Mar 2026

Morwell faces moderate risks from flooding and heatwaves, with bushfire risk also a concern. Climate change is expected to exacerbate these risks in the future. Residents should prepare for more frequent and intense extreme weather events.

Overall Risk Score

5.5/10
Medium

Confidence: Medium

Hazard Breakdown

Flood
6.0
Bushfire
5.0
Heat
6.0
Coastal
1.0

Detailed Hazard Analysis

heat Risk

6.0/10

Morwell is experiencing an increase in the frequency and intensity of heatwaves. This poses a risk to vulnerable populations, especially the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Climate change
  • ·Urban heat island effect

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

6.8

2050

7.5

Data source

flood Risk

6.0/10

Morwell faces a moderate risk of flooding, primarily from the Morwell River and heavy rainfall events. Local drainage infrastructure can be overwhelmed during intense storms.

Primary Drivers

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

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

6.5

2050

7.0

Data source

coastal Risk

1.0/10

Morwell is located inland and has a very low risk of coastal hazards.

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

1.0

2050

1.0

Data source

bushfire Risk

5.0/10

Morwell has a moderate bushfire risk due to its proximity to bushland areas. Grassfires are also a concern during dry periods.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Dry vegetation
  • ·High temperatures
  • ·Wind

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

5.2

2050

5.5

Data source

What This Means for Property Owners

Insurance Outlook

Insurance premiums may increase due to flood and bushfire risks.

Price Impact

Properties in flood-prone areas may experience price reductions.

Buyer Checklist

  • 1.Check flood maps and bushfire overlays.
  • 2.Assess property's vulnerability to heatwaves.
  • 3.Review insurance options.
  • 4.Consider long-term climate projections.

Local Climate Evidence

Flood Evidence

Nearest Waterway
Morwell River
Elevation Range
140-160m
Flood Zone
Areas along the Morwell River are designated as flood zones.

Local drainage infrastructure is being upgraded to mitigate flood risks.

View council flood map

Bushfire Evidence

Distance to Bushland
Adjacent to bushland reserves.
Planning Overlay
Bushfire Management Overlay (BMO) applies to some areas.
Bushfire Prone Area
Yes

Residents are advised to maintain firebreaks and prepare bushfire survival plans.

Heat Evidence

Avg January Max Temp
27.5°C
Heat Stress Days/Year
3 days

Cooling centers are activated during heatwave events.

Coastal Evidence

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

Historical Climate Events

2012
floodModerate

Heavy rainfall caused flooding in low-lying areas of Morwell, affecting homes and businesses.

Source
2009
bushfireMajor

The Black Saturday bushfires impacted the region surrounding Morwell, causing significant damage and loss of life.

Source
2019
heatwaveModerate

A prolonged heatwave resulted in increased hospital admissions and strain on local resources.

Source
2023
floodModerate

Significant rainfall caused the Morwell River to flood, impacting local infrastructure and residences.

Source

Climate Outlook to 2050

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

HazardToday20302050
flood6.06.5(+0.5)7.0(+1.0)
bushfire5.05.2(+0.2)5.5(+0.5)
heat6.06.8(+0.8)7.5(+1.5)
coastal1.01.01.0

By 2030, Morwell is projected to experience an increase in the frequency and intensity of heatwaves and flooding events. Bushfire risk will also slightly increase. Coastal risks remain negligible.

CSIRO Climate Projections

Adaptation Recommendations

Upgrade Drainage Infrastructure

Near-term

Invest in upgrading drainage systems to handle increased rainfall intensity and reduce flood risk.

Est. cost: High

Learn more

Implement Heatwave Action Plan

Immediate

Develop and implement a comprehensive heatwave action plan to protect vulnerable populations.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Bushfire Mitigation Measures

Near-term

Implement bushfire mitigation measures, including fuel reduction and community education programs.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Community Awareness Programs

Long-term

Conduct community awareness programs to educate residents about climate risks and adaptation strategies.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

Promote Water Conservation

Long-term

Encourage water conservation practices to mitigate the impacts of drought and water scarcity.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

About Morwell's Climate Risk Profile

Morwell, located in the Latrobe Valley, is susceptible to several climate-related risks. Flooding is a primary concern due to the Morwell River and the potential for heavy rainfall to overwhelm local drainage systems. Climate change is projected to increase rainfall intensity, further elevating flood risk.

Bushfire risk is also present due to the town's proximity to bushland areas. Dry vegetation and high temperatures during the summer months can create conditions conducive to bushfires. Grassfires can also pose a threat.

Heatwaves are becoming more frequent and intense in Morwell, posing a significant risk to public health, particularly for vulnerable populations. The urban heat island effect can exacerbate these conditions.

While coastal hazards are not a direct threat to Morwell due to its inland location, the broader impacts of climate change, such as disruptions to supply chains and economic activity, could still affect the town. Adapting to these changing conditions is crucial for ensuring the long-term resilience of Morwell.

Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · Emergency Management Victoria

Local Government Resources

Latrobe City Council

Climate StrategyFlood MapsEmergency Services

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main climate risks facing Morwell?

Morwell faces risks from flooding, bushfires, and heatwaves. Climate change is expected to exacerbate these risks in the future.

How is the Latrobe City Council addressing climate change?

The Latrobe City Council is developing and implementing climate adaptation strategies to reduce the impacts of climate change on the community.

What can residents do to prepare for heatwaves?

Residents can stay hydrated, seek air-conditioned environments, and check on vulnerable neighbors during heatwaves.

What should I do during a flood?

During a flood, move to higher ground, avoid driving through floodwaters, and follow instructions from emergency services.

How can I protect my property from bushfires?

You can protect your property by maintaining firebreaks, clearing gutters, and having a bushfire survival plan.

Where can I find information about local emergency services?

Information about local emergency services can be found on the Emergency Management Victoria website.

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