Climate Risk Assessment for Chisholm, ACT

chisholm, Australian Capital Territory· UNKNOWN· 2905
Medium Risk
Updated Mar 2026

Chisholm faces moderate risks from flooding, bushfires, and heatwaves. Climate change is expected to exacerbate these risks, particularly increasing the intensity of heatwaves and rainfall events. Residents should stay informed and prepared for potential impacts.

Overall Risk Score

5.2/10
Medium

Confidence: Medium

Hazard Breakdown

Flood
4.5
Bushfire
6.0
Heat
5.0
Coastal
1.0

Detailed Hazard Analysis

heat Risk

5.0/10

Chisholm experiences moderately high temperatures during summer, with potential for heatwaves. Vulnerable populations are at increased risk during these events.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Rising average temperatures
  • ·Increased frequency of heatwaves
  • ·Urban heat island effect

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

5.5

2050

6.0

Data source

flood Risk

4.5/10

Chisholm faces a moderate risk of flooding, primarily from heavy rainfall events and potential overflow from nearby waterways. Development patterns and stormwater management play a crucial role.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Increased rainfall intensity
  • ·Urban development
  • ·Stormwater capacity

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

5.0

2050

5.5

Data source

coastal Risk

1.0/10

As an inland suburb, Chisholm has a very low risk associated with coastal hazards.

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

1.0

2050

1.0

Data source

bushfire Risk

6.0/10

Chisholm has a notable bushfire risk due to its proximity to bushland areas. Hot, dry conditions during summer increase the likelihood of bushfires impacting the suburb.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Dry vegetation
  • ·High temperatures
  • ·Wind patterns

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

6.0

2050

6.0

Data source

What This Means for Property Owners

Insurance Outlook

Insurers are likely to increase premiums in response to increased flood and bushfire risk.

Price Impact

Properties in high-risk areas may experience a decrease in value.

Buyer Checklist

  • 1.Check flood maps and bushfire hazard zones.
  • 2.Assess the property's vulnerability to heatwaves.
  • 3.Review insurance options and premiums.
  • 4.Develop a bushfire survival plan.

Local Climate Evidence

Flood Evidence

Nearest Waterway
Gudgenby River
Elevation Range
600-650m
Flood Zone
Potentially affected by local overland flow

Local drainage infrastructure is designed to manage typical rainfall events, but extreme rainfall can overwhelm the system.

View council flood map

Bushfire Evidence

Distance to Bushland
Adjacent to bushland reserves
Planning Overlay
ACT Emergency Services Agency Bushfire Overlay
Bushfire Prone Area
Yes

Residents are advised to maintain firebreaks and have a bushfire survival plan.

Heat Evidence

Avg January Max Temp
28.5°C
Heat Stress Days/Year
3 days

Heatwaves typically occur in January and February, with temperatures exceeding 35°C for several consecutive days.

Coastal Evidence

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

Historical Climate Events

2020
stormModerate

Severe thunderstorms caused flash flooding and property damage in Chisholm.

Source
2003
bushfireCatastrophic

The 2003 Canberra bushfires impacted Chisholm, causing significant property damage and displacement.

Source
2018
heatwaveModerate

A prolonged heatwave in January 2018 resulted in increased hospital admissions for heat-related illnesses.

Source

Climate Outlook to 2050

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

HazardToday20302050
flood4.54.8(+0.3)5.0(+0.5)
bushfire6.06.2(+0.2)6.3(+0.3)
heat5.06.0(+1.0)7.0(+2.0)
coastal1.01.01.0

By 2030, Chisholm is projected to experience a notable increase in heatwave intensity and frequency, with a slight increase in flood and bushfire risk. Adaptation measures will be crucial to protect vulnerable populations.

CSIRO Climate Projections

Adaptation Recommendations

Improve stormwater drainage

Near-term

Upgrade stormwater infrastructure to handle increased rainfall intensity and reduce flood risk.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Implement a heatwave action plan

Immediate

Develop and implement a heatwave action plan to protect vulnerable populations during extreme heat events.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

Strengthen bushfire preparedness

Near-term

Provide residents with information and resources to prepare for bushfires, including maintaining firebreaks and developing evacuation plans.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

Promote water conservation

Long-term

Encourage residents to conserve water through education and incentives, reducing demand on water resources during droughts.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

About chisholm's Climate Risk Profile

Chisholm, located in the Australian Capital Territory, is subject to a range of climate-related risks. The suburb's proximity to bushland increases its vulnerability to bushfires, especially during the hot, dry summer months. Changes in rainfall patterns and increased storm intensity also contribute to flood risk, particularly in low-lying areas.

Rising average temperatures and more frequent heatwaves pose a significant threat to vulnerable populations, including the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions. The urban environment can amplify these effects, creating urban heat islands that exacerbate heat stress.

Climate change projections indicate that these risks are likely to intensify in the coming decades. Increased rainfall intensity could lead to more frequent and severe flooding events, while hotter and drier conditions could increase the risk and severity of bushfires. Adapting to these changes will require a combination of individual preparedness, community resilience, and government action.

Mitigation efforts, such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions, are also crucial to slowing the pace of climate change and reducing the long-term risks to Chisholm. Residents can contribute by adopting sustainable practices, such as reducing energy consumption, using public transport, and supporting policies that promote a low-carbon economy.

Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · ACT Emergency Services Agency · ACT Environment, Planning and Sustainable Development Directorate

Local Government Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main climate change risks in Chisholm?

Chisholm faces increasing risks from heatwaves, flooding, and bushfires due to climate change. These risks are projected to intensify in the coming decades.

How can I prepare my home for a bushfire?

You can prepare your home by maintaining firebreaks, clearing gutters, and having a bushfire survival plan. The ACT Emergency Services Agency provides resources and information on bushfire preparedness.

What should I do during a heatwave?

During a heatwave, stay indoors in air-conditioned environments, drink plenty of water, and avoid strenuous activity. Check on vulnerable neighbors and family members.

Where can I find information about flood risks in Chisholm?

Flood maps and information are available on the ACT Environment, Planning and Sustainable Development Directorate website.

What is the ACT Government doing to address climate change?

The ACT Government has a climate change strategy that includes targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and adapting to the impacts of climate change. More information is available on the ACT Environment, Planning and Sustainable Development Directorate website.

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