Climate Risk Profile: Cabramatta, NSW

Cabramatta, New South Wales· UNKNOWN· 2166

Medium Risk

Updated Mar 2026

Cabramatta faces moderate risks from flooding and high risks from heatwaves. The suburb's urban environment contributes to the urban heat island effect, increasing heat-related risks. While bushfire and coastal risks are low, residents should be aware of potential hazards and take appropriate precautions.

Overall Risk Score

5.8/10

Medium

Confidence: Medium

Hazard Breakdown

Flood

6.5

Bushfire

3.2

Heat

7.0

Coastal

1.0

Detailed Hazard Analysis

heat Risk

7.0/10

Cabramatta experiences a high risk of heatwaves, particularly during the summer months. Urban heat island effect exacerbates the impact of high temperatures.

Primary Drivers

·Climate change
·Urban heat island effect
·Lack of green spaces

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

7.5

2050

8.0

Data source

flood Risk

6.5/10

Cabramatta faces a moderate risk of flooding due to its proximity to waterways and low-lying areas. Heavy rainfall events can lead to localized flooding.

Primary Drivers

·Increased rainfall intensity
·Urban development
·Inadequate drainage infrastructure

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

7.0

2050

7.5

Data source

coastal Risk

1.0/10

Cabramatta is located inland and does not face a direct risk from coastal hazards such as sea-level rise or coastal erosion.

Primary Drivers

·Distance from the coast

Projections (RCP2.6)

2030

1.0

2050

1.0

Data source

bushfire Risk

3.2/10

The bushfire risk in Cabramatta is relatively low due to its urban environment and distance from large bushland areas. However, grassfires can still pose a threat during dry periods.

Primary Drivers

·Dry vegetation
·High winds
·Accidental ignitions

Projections (RCP4.5)

2030

3.5

2050

3.8

Data source

What This Means for Property Owners

Insurance Outlook

Insurance premiums may increase due to flood risk and heatwave exposure.

Price Impact

Properties in flood-prone areas may experience a decrease in value.

Buyer Checklist

1.Check flood maps and insurance costs.
2.Assess the property's vulnerability to heatwaves.
3.Consider energy efficiency measures.
4.Inquire about council plans for flood mitigation and heat management.

Local Climate Evidence

Flood Evidence

Nearest Waterway: Orphan School Creek
Elevation Range: 10-20 meters
Flood Zone: Partially within a 100-year flood zone

Bushfire Evidence

Distance to Bushland: 5 km to nearest bushland
Planning Overlay: Not within a designated bushfire prone area
Bushfire Prone Area: No

Heat Evidence

Avg January Max Temp: 30.5°C
Heat Stress Days/Year: 5 days

Coastal Evidence

Distance to Coast: 30 km
Sea Level Rise Exposure: No direct exposure to sea-level rise
Erosion Risk: No erosion risk

Historical Climate Events

2011

floodModerate

Major flooding occurred in the Sydney region, impacting Cabramatta with localized flooding and disruptions to transport.

Source

2013

heatwaveModerate

A prolonged heatwave affected Sydney, with Cabramatta experiencing several days of extreme heat, leading to increased hospital admissions.

Source

2020

floodMinor

Heavy rainfall caused localized flooding in Cabramatta, affecting some residential areas and businesses.

Source

Climate 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	3.2	3.3(+0.1)	3.4(+0.2)
heat	7.0	7.8(+0.8)	8.5(+1.5)
coastal	1.0	1.0	1.0

By 2030, Cabramatta is projected to experience an increase in heatwave intensity and frequency, with a moderate increase in flood risk due to more intense rainfall events. Bushfire risk remains relatively stable, while coastal risks remain negligible.

CSIRO Climate Projections

Adaptation Recommendations

Improve Drainage Infrastructure

Near-term

Upgrade and maintain drainage systems to reduce the risk of flooding during heavy rainfall events.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Implement Urban Cooling Strategies

Immediate

Increase green spaces, plant trees, and use cool pavements to reduce the urban heat island effect.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Develop a Heatwave Management Plan

Immediate

Create a plan to protect vulnerable residents during heatwaves, including cooling centers and public awareness campaigns.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

Promote Water Conservation

Long-term

Encourage residents to conserve water to reduce strain on water resources during droughts and heatwaves.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

About Cabramatta's Climate Risk Profile

Cabramatta, located in the western suburbs of Sydney, is exposed to several climate-related risks. The primary concerns are flooding and heatwaves, with moderate flood risk due to its proximity to waterways and low-lying areas. Intense rainfall events can overwhelm drainage systems, leading to localized flooding.

Heatwaves pose a significant threat, particularly during the summer months. The urban environment exacerbates the impact of high temperatures, creating an urban heat island effect. This can lead to increased energy consumption, health problems, and discomfort for residents.

Bushfire risk is relatively low due to the suburb's urban nature and distance from large bushland areas. However, grassfires can still occur during dry periods, posing a threat to properties and residents. Coastal risks are minimal as Cabramatta is located inland and not directly exposed to sea-level rise or coastal erosion.

Climate change is expected to exacerbate these risks in the future. Increased rainfall intensity will likely lead to more frequent and severe flooding events. Higher temperatures and more frequent heatwaves will increase the risk of heat-related illnesses and strain energy infrastructure. Residents and local authorities should take proactive measures to adapt to these changing conditions and mitigate the impacts of climate change.

Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · SES NSW · Fairfield City Council

Local Government Resources

Fairfield City Council

Climate Strategy Flood Maps Emergency Services

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main climate change risks in Cabramatta?

The main climate change risks in Cabramatta are flooding and heatwaves. Increased rainfall intensity and higher temperatures are expected to exacerbate these risks in the future.

How can I prepare my home for a flood in Cabramatta?

You can prepare your home for a flood by elevating appliances, storing valuables above flood level, and having an emergency plan in place. Check the Fairfield City Council website for flood maps and advice.

What can I do to stay cool during a heatwave in Cabramatta?

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

Is Cabramatta in a bushfire prone area?

While Cabramatta is not in a designated bushfire prone area, residents should still be aware of the risk of grassfires during dry periods. Keep your property clear of dry vegetation and have a bushfire survival plan in place.

Where can I find more information about climate change impacts in Cabramatta?

You can find more information about climate change impacts in Cabramatta on the Fairfield City Council website, the NSW Department of Planning and Environment website, and the CSIRO website.

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