Climate Risk Profile: Lyons, ACT
Lyons is a suburb in the Australian Capital Territory that faces moderate risks from flooding, bushfires, and heatwaves. Climate change is expected to exacerbate these risks in the future. Residents should take steps to prepare for these hazards.
Overall Risk Score
Confidence: Medium
Hazard Breakdown
Detailed Hazard Analysis
heat Risk
Lyons is likely to experience more frequent and intense heatwaves. This poses a risk to vulnerable populations, especially during summer.
Primary Drivers
- ·Rising temperatures
- ·Urban heat island effect
- ·Climate change
Projections (RCP8.5)
2030
6.8
2050
7.4
flood Risk
Lyons has a moderate risk of flooding due to its proximity to waterways and low-lying areas. Increased rainfall intensity could exacerbate this risk.
Primary Drivers
- ·Increased rainfall intensity
- ·Urban development
- ·Climate change
Projections (RCP8.5)
2030
5.0
2050
5.5
bushfire Risk
Lyons faces a moderate bushfire risk due to its proximity to surrounding bushland. Drier conditions and higher temperatures could increase the likelihood and intensity of bushfires.
Primary Drivers
- ·Drier conditions
- ·Higher temperatures
- ·Increased fuel load
Projections (RCP8.5)
2030
4.3
2050
4.8
What This Means for Property Owners
Insurance Outlook
Insurance premiums may increase due to increased climate risks.
Price Impact
Property values may be affected by increased flood and bushfire risks.
Buyer Checklist
- 1.Check flood maps and bushfire overlays.
- 2.Assess property's vulnerability to heatwaves.
- 3.Consider insurance costs.
- 4.Review emergency preparedness plans.
Local Climate Evidence
Flood Evidence
- Nearest Waterway
- Molonglo River
- Elevation Range
- 550-600m
- Flood Zone
- Potentially affected areas near the Molonglo River
Some areas near the Molonglo River are susceptible to flooding during periods of heavy rainfall.
View council flood mapBushfire Evidence
- Distance to Bushland
- Adjacent to bushland reserves
- Planning Overlay
- ACT Emergency Services Agency Bushfire Overlay
- Bushfire Prone Area
- Yes
Properties bordering bushland are at higher risk during bushfire season.
Heat Evidence
- Avg January Max Temp
- 28.5°C
- Heat Stress Days/Year
- 3 days
Lyons experiences several days above 35°C each summer.
Coastal Evidence
- Distance to Coast
- 150 km
- Sea Level Rise Exposure
- N/A
- Erosion Risk
- N/A
Historical Climate Events
Severe thunderstorms caused flash flooding and property damage in Canberra, including Lyons.
SourceThe 2003 Canberra bushfires caused widespread destruction and loss of life. Lyons was affected by smoke and ember attack.
SourceCanberra experienced a prolonged heatwave with temperatures exceeding 40°C for several days.
SourceClimate Outlook to 2050
Projections based on CSIRO and BOM climate modelling. Scenario: RCP8.5
| Hazard | Today | 2030 | 2050 |
|---|---|---|---|
| flood | 4.5 | 4.8(+0.3) | 5.1(+0.6) |
| bushfire | 3.8 | 4.2(+0.4) | 4.5(+0.7) |
| heat | 6.2 | 7.0(+0.8) | 7.7(+1.5) |
| coastal | 1.0 | 1.0 | 1.0 |
By 2030, Lyons is projected to experience a moderate increase in overall climate risk, with notable increases in heatwave frequency and intensity. Bushfire risk is also expected to rise due to drier conditions.
CSIRO Climate ProjectionsAdaptation Recommendations
Improve Flood Defenses
Near-termInstall flood barriers and improve drainage systems to protect properties from flooding.
Est. cost: Medium
Learn moreBushfire Preparedness
ImmediateClear vegetation around properties, develop a bushfire survival plan, and install fire-resistant materials.
Est. cost: Low to Medium
Learn moreHeatwave Preparedness
Near-termInstall air conditioning or fans, improve home insulation, and stay hydrated during heatwaves.
Est. cost: Low to Medium
Learn moreCommunity Education
Long-termParticipate in community workshops and training sessions on climate change adaptation and emergency preparedness.
Est. cost: Low
Learn moreAbout Lyons's Climate Risk Profile
Lyons, located in the Weston Creek district of Canberra, is a primarily residential suburb. Its location makes it susceptible to certain climate-related risks.
Flooding is a concern due to the suburb's proximity to waterways and low-lying areas. Increased rainfall intensity, driven by climate change, could lead to more frequent and severe flooding events. Residents should be aware of flood risks and take appropriate precautions.
Bushfire risk is also present due to the surrounding bushland. Drier conditions and higher temperatures can increase the likelihood and intensity of bushfires. It is important for residents to maintain their properties and be prepared for potential bushfire threats.
Heatwaves are becoming more frequent and intense, posing a risk to vulnerable populations. The urban heat island effect can further exacerbate the impact of heatwaves in Lyons. Residents should take steps to stay cool and hydrated during hot weather.
While Lyons is not directly exposed to coastal risks, the broader impacts of climate change, such as disruptions to supply chains and economic activity, could still affect the suburb.
Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · ACT Emergency Services Agency · ACT Government
Local Government Resources
ACT Government
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main climate change risks in Lyons?
Lyons faces risks from flooding, bushfires, and heatwaves, which are expected to worsen with climate change.
How can I prepare my home for flooding?
Install flood barriers, improve drainage, and raise electrical appliances above flood level.
What should I do during a heatwave?
Stay indoors, use air conditioning or fans, drink plenty of water, and avoid strenuous activity.
How can I protect my property from bushfires?
Clear vegetation, maintain gutters, and have a bushfire survival plan.
Where can I find more information about climate change in the ACT?
Visit the ACT Government's climate change website for information on policies, programs, and resources.
Is Lyons a good place to live considering climate change?
Lyons is still a desirable place to live, but residents should be aware of the climate risks and take steps to prepare for them. The suburb's proximity to amenities and green spaces remains a positive factor.
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