Climate Risk in Symonston, ACT
Symonston faces moderate risks from flooding and heatwaves, with bushfire risk also present. Climate change is expected to exacerbate these risks, particularly heatwaves and flooding events.
Overall Risk Score
Confidence: Medium
Hazard Breakdown
Detailed Hazard Analysis
heat Risk
Symonston is likely to experience more frequent and intense heatwaves. This poses a risk to vulnerable populations and infrastructure.
Primary Drivers
- ·Rising global temperatures
- ·Urban heat island effect
Projections (RCP8.5)
2030
7.5
2050
8.0
flood Risk
Symonston faces a moderate risk of flooding, primarily from intense rainfall events and the nearby Molonglo River. Low-lying areas are particularly vulnerable.
Primary Drivers
- ·Increased rainfall intensity
- ·Urban development increasing runoff
Projections (RCP8.5)
2030
7.0
2050
7.5
coastal Risk
Symonston is not exposed to coastal risks.
Projections (RCP8.5)
2030
1.0
2050
1.0
bushfire Risk
Bushfire risk in Symonston is moderate due to its proximity to grasslands and some wooded areas. Grassfires can spread rapidly under dry and windy conditions.
Primary Drivers
- ·Dry vegetation
- ·Increased frequency of heatwaves
Projections (RCP8.5)
2030
4.5
2050
4.8
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 price stagnation or decline.
Buyer Checklist
- 1.Check flood maps and insurance costs.
- 2.Assess property's vulnerability to heatwaves.
- 3.Inquire about bushfire risk mitigation measures.
Local Climate Evidence
Flood Evidence
- Nearest Waterway
- Molonglo River
- Elevation Range
- 550-600m
- Flood Zone
- Potentially affected areas near Molonglo River
Historical flood data indicates localized flooding during periods of heavy rainfall.
View council flood mapBushfire Evidence
- Distance to Bushland
- Adjacent to grasslands
- Planning Overlay
- ACTmapi Bushfire Prone Areas
- Bushfire Prone Area
- Yes
Grassfires are a primary concern due to the suburb's proximity to open grasslands.
Heat Evidence
- Avg January Max Temp
- 28.5°C
- Heat Stress Days/Year
- 3 days
Heatwaves are becoming more frequent, with temperatures exceeding 35°C on multiple days during summer.
Coastal Evidence
- Distance to Coast
- 150 km
- Sea Level Rise Exposure
- Not applicable
- Erosion Risk
- Not applicable
Historical Climate Events
Severe thunderstorm with heavy rainfall caused localized flooding in parts of Symonston.
SourceProlonged heatwave with temperatures exceeding 38°C impacted vulnerable residents.
SourceThe 2003 Canberra bushfires impacted the region, causing significant damage and highlighting the bushfire risk.
SourceClimate Outlook to 2050
Projections based on CSIRO and BOM climate modelling. Scenario: RCP8.5
| Hazard | Today | 2030 | 2050 |
|---|---|---|---|
| flood | 6.5 | 6.8(+0.3) | 7.1(+0.6) |
| bushfire | 4.2 | 4.3(+0.1) | 4.5(+0.3) |
| heat | 7.0 | 7.6(+0.6) | 8.5(+1.5) |
| coastal | 1.0 | 1.0 | 1.0 |
By 2030, Symonston is projected to experience a notable increase in heatwave frequency and intensity, along with a slight increase in flood risk due to more intense rainfall events. Bushfire risk remains relatively stable.
CSIRO Climate ProjectionsAdaptation Recommendations
Improve stormwater drainage
Near-termUpgrade stormwater infrastructure to handle increased rainfall intensity and reduce flood risk.
Est. cost: Medium
Learn moreImplement heatwave early warning system
ImmediateDevelop and implement a heatwave early warning system to protect vulnerable populations.
Est. cost: Low
Learn moreBushfire risk mitigation
Near-termImplement bushfire risk mitigation measures, such as vegetation management and community education programs.
Est. cost: Medium
Learn morePromote water conservation
Long-termEncourage water conservation measures to reduce strain on water resources during periods of drought.
Est. cost: Low
Learn moreAbout symonston's Climate Risk Profile
Symonston, located in the Australian Capital Territory, is subject to a range of climate-related risks. The primary concerns are increased heatwave frequency and intensity, as well as the potential for flooding due to more intense rainfall events.
The suburb's proximity to the Molonglo River increases its vulnerability to flooding, especially in low-lying areas. Urban development can also exacerbate runoff, contributing to flood risk. Bushfire risk is moderate, with grasslands posing a threat during dry periods.
Heatwaves are projected to become more frequent and severe, impacting vulnerable populations and potentially straining infrastructure. The urban heat island effect may further amplify these impacts. While Symonston is not directly exposed to coastal risks, the broader impacts of climate change can still affect the region.
Addressing these risks requires proactive adaptation measures, including improved stormwater management, bushfire mitigation strategies, and heatwave preparedness plans. Community awareness and engagement are also crucial for building resilience to climate change.
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 Symonston?
The main risks are increased heatwave frequency and intensity, as well as the potential for flooding due to more intense rainfall events. Bushfire risk is also a concern.
How will climate change affect property values in Symonston?
Properties in flood-prone areas may experience price stagnation or decline. Increased insurance premiums due to climate risks may also affect property values.
What is the council doing to address climate change in Symonston?
The ACT Government has a climate strategy in place that aims to reduce emissions and build resilience to climate change impacts. This includes measures to improve stormwater management, mitigate bushfire risk, and prepare for heatwaves.
What can residents do to prepare for climate change impacts?
Residents can take steps to reduce their vulnerability to heatwaves, such as installing air conditioning and staying hydrated. They can also prepare for floods by clearing gutters and drains and having an emergency plan in place. Maintaining defensible space around properties can help reduce bushfire risk.
Where can I find more information about flood risks in Symonston?
You can find flood maps and information on the ACT City Services website.
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