Climate Risk in Kingston, ACT

Kingston, Australian Capital Territory· UNKNOWN· 2604
Medium Risk
Updated Mar 2026

Kingston faces moderate climate risks, primarily from increased heatwaves and potential flooding. While bushfire risk is relatively low, it's important to stay informed and prepared. Residents should consider adaptation measures to mitigate the impacts of climate change.

Overall Risk Score

5.2/10
Medium

Confidence: Medium

Hazard Breakdown

Flood
4.5
Bushfire
3.0
Heat
7.0
Coastal
1.0

Detailed Hazard Analysis

heat Risk

7.0/10

Kingston is likely to experience more frequent and intense heatwaves. The urban heat island effect could further exacerbate the impact of heat on residents.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Increased frequency of heatwaves
  • ·Urban heat island effect
  • ·Climate change

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

7.5

2050

8.0

Data source

flood Risk

4.5/10

Kingston faces a moderate risk of flooding due to its proximity to Lake Burley Griffin and the Molonglo River. Increased rainfall intensity could exacerbate this risk.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Increased rainfall intensity
  • ·Urban development
  • ·Lake Burley Griffin water levels

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

5.0

2050

5.5

Data source

coastal Risk

1.0/10

Kingston is not exposed to coastal risks.

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

1.0

2050

1.0

Data source

bushfire Risk

3.0/10

Kingston has a relatively low bushfire risk due to its urban location and limited vegetation. However, dry conditions and strong winds could increase the risk.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Dry conditions
  • ·Strong winds
  • ·Proximity to grasslands

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

3.2

2050

3.5

Data source

What This Means for Property Owners

Insurance Outlook

Insurance premiums may increase due to flood and heat risks.

Price Impact

Properties in flood-prone areas may experience price reductions.

Buyer Checklist

  • 1.Check flood maps and insurance costs.
  • 2.Assess property's vulnerability to heat.
  • 3.Consider energy efficiency measures.

Local Climate Evidence

Flood Evidence

Nearest Waterway
Lake Burley Griffin
Elevation Range
550-570m
Flood Zone
Potentially affected by lake flooding

Areas near the lake foreshore are most vulnerable to flooding.

View council flood map

Bushfire Evidence

Distance to Bushland
1-2km to grasslands
Planning Overlay
ACTmapi
Bushfire Prone Area
No

The suburb is primarily urbanized, reducing bushfire risk.

Heat Evidence

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

Urban heat island effect can increase temperatures.

Coastal Evidence

Distance to Coast
150 km
Sea Level Rise Exposure
N/A
Erosion Risk
N/A

Historical Climate Events

2018
heatwaveModerate

Canberra experienced a prolonged heatwave in January 2018, with temperatures exceeding 40°C for several days.

Source
2010
floodMinor

Heavy rainfall caused minor flooding in low-lying areas around Lake Burley Griffin.

Source
2003
bushfireCatastrophic

The 2003 Canberra bushfires caused widespread damage and loss of life in the ACT region, although Kingston was not directly impacted.

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)
bushfire3.03.1(+0.1)3.3(+0.3)
heat7.07.8(+0.8)8.5(+1.5)
coastal1.01.01.0

By 2030, Kingston is projected to experience a moderate increase in overall climate risk, primarily driven by more frequent and intense heatwaves. Flood risk may also increase due to heavier rainfall events.

CSIRO Climate Projections

Adaptation Recommendations

Increase green spaces

Near-term

Plant more trees and create green spaces to reduce the urban heat island effect and provide shade.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Improve drainage infrastructure

Near-term

Upgrade drainage systems to handle increased rainfall and reduce the risk of flooding.

Est. cost: High

Learn more

Promote water conservation

Long-term

Encourage residents to conserve water through education and incentives.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

Develop a heatwave response plan

Immediate

Create a plan to protect vulnerable populations during heatwaves, including cooling centers and outreach programs.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

About Kingston's Climate Risk Profile

Kingston, located in the Australian Capital Territory, is projected to experience more frequent and intense heatwaves due to climate change. The urban environment can exacerbate these effects, creating an urban heat island. This poses a risk to vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions.

Flooding is another concern for Kingston, given its proximity to Lake Burley Griffin and the Molonglo River. Increased rainfall intensity could lead to more frequent and severe flooding events, potentially impacting infrastructure and property. It is important to monitor water levels and heed any warnings issued by the ACT Emergency Services Agency.

While the risk of bushfire is relatively low compared to other areas in the ACT, Kingston is not entirely immune. Dry conditions and strong winds can increase the risk of fire spreading from nearby grasslands. Residents should maintain their properties and be aware of fire safety guidelines.

Adapting to these climate risks is crucial for ensuring the long-term sustainability and liveability of Kingston. This includes measures such as increasing green spaces to reduce the urban heat island effect, improving drainage infrastructure to mitigate flooding, and implementing bushfire prevention strategies. Individual actions, such as conserving water and energy, can also contribute to reducing the overall impact of climate change.

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

Local Government Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main climate change risks for Kingston?

The main climate change risks for Kingston are increased heatwaves and potential flooding due to heavier rainfall.

How will climate change affect property values in Kingston?

Properties in flood-prone areas may experience price reductions, while properties with good energy efficiency may become more desirable.

What can I do to prepare for heatwaves in Kingston?

Stay hydrated, seek shade, and check on vulnerable neighbors. Consider installing air conditioning or visiting a cooling center.

Where can I find information about flood risks in Kingston?

You can find flood maps and information on the ACT Environment and Planning Directorate website.

Is Kingston in a bushfire-prone area?

While Kingston is not considered a high-risk bushfire area, it's important to be aware of fire safety guidelines and maintain your property.

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