Climate Risk in Budgewoi, NSW

Budgewoi, New South Wales· Central Coast· 2262
Medium Risk
Updated Mar 2026

Budgewoi is a coastal suburb on the Central Coast of NSW, facing moderate risks from flooding, bushfires, heatwaves, and coastal hazards. Climate change is expected to exacerbate these risks, particularly flooding and heatwaves.

Overall Risk Score

5.8/10
Medium

Confidence: Medium

Hazard Breakdown

Flood
6.5
Bushfire
4.2
Heat
7.1
Coastal
5.4

Detailed Hazard Analysis

heat Risk

7.1/10

Budgewoi experiences a high risk of heatwaves, with increasing average temperatures and more frequent extreme heat events. This poses a risk to vulnerable populations.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Rising global temperatures
  • ·Urban heat island effect

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

7.6

2050

8.2

Data source

flood Risk

6.5/10

Budgewoi faces a moderate risk of flooding due to its low-lying areas and proximity to Lake Budgewoi and the ocean. Intense rainfall events can lead to stormwater and coastal flooding.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Increased rainfall intensity
  • ·Sea level rise
  • ·Storm surge

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

7.0

2050

7.5

Data source

coastal Risk

5.4/10

Budgewoi faces a moderate risk from coastal hazards due to its location on a peninsula. Sea level rise and storm surges can lead to coastal erosion and inundation.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Sea level rise
  • ·Increased storm intensity

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

5.8

2050

6.3

Data source

bushfire Risk

4.2/10

Bushfire risk in Budgewoi is moderate, with some areas bordering bushland. Hot, dry conditions and strong winds can increase the likelihood of bushfires.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Dry vegetation
  • ·High temperatures
  • ·Strong winds

Projections (RCP4.5)

2030

4.5

2050

4.8

Data source

What This Means for Property Owners

Insurance Outlook

Insurance premiums may increase due to the rising risk of flooding and coastal hazards.

Price Impact

Properties in high-risk areas may experience a decrease in value as climate risks become more apparent.

Buyer Checklist

  • 1.Check flood maps and coastal erosion risk assessments.
  • 2.Assess bushfire risk and implement mitigation measures.
  • 3.Consider the potential impact of sea level rise on the property.
  • 4.Inquire about insurance costs and coverage for climate-related hazards.

Local Climate Evidence

Flood Evidence

Nearest Waterway
Lake Budgewoi
Elevation Range
0-10 meters
Flood Zone
Coastal and riverine floodplains

Several properties in Budgewoi are located within identified flood zones and may be subject to inundation during heavy rainfall events.

View council flood map

Bushfire Evidence

Distance to Bushland
Adjacent to some residential areas
Planning Overlay
NSW RFS Bush Fire Prone Land Map
Bushfire Prone Area
Yes

Residents should consult the NSW Rural Fire Service website to determine if their property is located in a bushfire-prone area and take appropriate precautions.

Heat Evidence

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

The number of days exceeding 35°C is projected to increase in the future, leading to more frequent and intense heat stress events.

Coastal Evidence

Distance to Coast
0.5 km
Sea Level Rise Exposure
Moderate exposure to sea level rise
Erosion Risk
Some areas at risk of coastal erosion

Historical Climate Events

2007
floodModerate

Major flooding occurred in the Central Coast region, impacting Budgewoi with significant inundation of low-lying areas.

Source
2013
bushfireMinor

A bushfire near Budgewoi caused property damage and required evacuations.

Source
2017
stormModerate

Severe storms caused widespread damage across the Central Coast, including power outages and property damage in Budgewoi.

Source
2019
heatwaveModerate

Record-breaking heatwave conditions impacted Budgewoi, with temperatures exceeding 40°C for several consecutive days.

Source

Climate Outlook to 2050

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

HazardToday20302050
flood6.57.0(+0.5)7.5(+1.0)
bushfire4.24.5(+0.3)4.8(+0.6)
heat7.17.8(+0.7)8.5(+1.4)
coastal5.45.8(+0.4)6.2(+0.8)

By 2030, Budgewoi is projected to experience an increase in the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, particularly heatwaves and flooding. Sea level rise will continue to pose a threat to coastal areas.

CSIRO Climate Projections

Adaptation Recommendations

Upgrade stormwater drainage infrastructure

Near-term

Improve the capacity of stormwater drains to handle increased rainfall intensity and reduce the risk of flooding.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Implement coastal protection measures

Long-term

Construct seawalls and other coastal defenses to protect against erosion and inundation from sea level rise and storm surges.

Est. cost: High

Learn more

Develop a heatwave management plan

Immediate

Establish cooling centers and provide public education on heatwave safety to protect vulnerable populations.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

Enhance bushfire preparedness

Near-term

Conduct hazard reduction burns, maintain firebreaks, and educate residents on bushfire safety measures.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Raise awareness about climate risks

Long-term

Educate the community about the impacts of climate change and encourage them to take action to reduce their vulnerability.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

About Budgewoi's Climate Risk Profile

Budgewoi, located on the Central Coast of New South Wales, is a suburb that faces a range of climate-related risks. Its coastal location and proximity to Lake Budgewoi make it particularly vulnerable to flooding and coastal erosion. Rising sea levels and more intense storm events are expected to increase the frequency and severity of these hazards.

The suburb also experiences moderate bushfire risk, with some areas bordering bushland. Hot, dry conditions can create a higher risk of bushfires, threatening homes and infrastructure. Residents need to be aware of bushfire safety measures and maintain their properties accordingly.

Heatwaves are another significant concern for Budgewoi, with average temperatures expected to rise in the coming years. This poses a particular risk to elderly residents and those with pre-existing health conditions. Access to cooling and adequate hydration are crucial during heatwave events.

Overall, Budgewoi needs to proactively adapt to the changing climate to protect its residents and infrastructure. This includes investing in flood mitigation measures, implementing bushfire management strategies, and promoting heatwave preparedness.

Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · NSW RFS · Central Coast Council

Local Government Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main climate change risks in Budgewoi?

Budgewoi faces risks from flooding, bushfires, heatwaves, and coastal erosion due to climate change.

How will sea level rise affect Budgewoi?

Sea level rise could lead to increased coastal erosion and inundation of low-lying areas in Budgewoi.

What can I do to prepare for heatwaves in Budgewoi?

Stay hydrated, seek air-conditioned environments, and check on vulnerable neighbors during heatwaves.

Where can I find information about bushfire safety in Budgewoi?

Visit the NSW Rural Fire Service website for information on bushfire safety and preparedness.

How is the Central Coast Council addressing climate change?

The Central Coast Council is developing and implementing strategies to mitigate and adapt to the impacts of climate change.

Are there any flood maps available for Budgewoi?

Yes, flood maps are available on the Central Coast Council website, showing areas at risk of flooding.

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