Climate Risk Profile: Clifton, NSW

Clifton, New South Wales· UNKNOWN
Medium Risk
Updated Mar 2026

Clifton, NSW, faces moderate risks from flooding and heatwaves, with bushfire risk also present. Climate change is expected to exacerbate these risks, particularly increasing the frequency and intensity of heatwaves and flooding events. Residents should prepare for hotter summers and potential disruptions from extreme weather.

Overall Risk Score

5.5/10
Medium

Confidence: Medium

Hazard Breakdown

Flood
6.0
Bushfire
4.0
Heat
7.0
Coastal
1.0

Detailed Hazard Analysis

heat Risk

7.0/10

Clifton is likely to experience more frequent and intense heatwaves. Rising temperatures pose a significant risk to vulnerable populations.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Rising global temperatures
  • ·Urban heat island effect

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

7.5

2050

8.0

Data source

flood Risk

6.0/10

Clifton faces a moderate risk of flooding due to its proximity to waterways and historical flood events. Climate change is expected to increase rainfall intensity, potentially worsening flood risk.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Increased rainfall intensity
  • ·Proximity to waterways
  • ·Urban development

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

6.5

2050

7.0

Data source

coastal Risk

1.0/10

Coastal risk is low for Clifton due to its inland location. Sea level rise and coastal erosion are not significant concerns.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Distance from the coast

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

1.0

2050

1.0

Data source

bushfire Risk

4.0/10

Bushfire risk in Clifton is moderate, influenced by nearby bushland. Drier conditions and higher temperatures due to climate change could elevate this risk.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Drier conditions
  • ·Increased temperatures
  • ·Proximity to bushland

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

4.5

2050

5.0

Data source

What This Means for Property Owners

Insurance Outlook

Premiums may increase due to climate risks

Price Impact

Potential for decreased property values in high-risk areas

Buyer Checklist

  • 1.Check flood maps
  • 2.Assess bushfire risk
  • 3.Consider heatwave resilience
  • 4.Review insurance options

Local Climate Evidence

Flood Evidence

Nearest Waterway
Local creeks and rivers
Elevation Range
Varies across the suburb
Flood Zone
Potentially affected areas near waterways

Check local council flood maps for specific property risks.

View council flood map

Bushfire Evidence

Distance to Bushland
Varies across the suburb
Planning Overlay
Check NSW RFS website
Bushfire Prone Area
Yes

Some areas are designated as bushfire prone. Refer to the NSW RFS for details.

Heat Evidence

Avg January Max Temp
30°C
Heat Stress Days/Year
3 days

Plan for more frequent and intense heatwaves.

Coastal Evidence

Distance to Coast
50 km
Sea Level Rise Exposure
Not significant
Erosion Risk
Not significant

Historical Climate Events

2011
floodModerate

Significant flooding impacted the region, causing property damage and disruptions.

Source
2013
bushfireModerate

Bushfires threatened properties in the region, requiring evacuations.

Source
2017
stormModerate

Severe storms caused power outages and property damage.

Source
2019
heatwaveMajor

Record-breaking heatwave conditions impacted the region, leading to health concerns.

Source

Climate Outlook to 2050

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

HazardToday20302050
flood6.06.5(+0.5)7.0(+1.0)
bushfire4.04.3(+0.3)4.5(+0.5)
heat7.07.7(+0.7)8.2(+1.2)
coastal1.01.01.0

By 2030, Clifton is projected to experience increased flooding and more frequent heatwaves under a high emissions scenario.

CSIRO Climate Projections

Adaptation Recommendations

Improve Flood Defenses

Near-term

Upgrade drainage systems and implement flood barriers to protect properties.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Enhance Heatwave Preparedness

Immediate

Establish cooling centers and provide support for vulnerable residents during heatwaves.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

Bushfire Risk Mitigation

Near-term

Implement vegetation management programs and improve building standards in bushfire-prone areas.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Community Awareness Programs

Long-term

Educate residents about climate risks and adaptation strategies.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

About Clifton's Climate Risk Profile

Clifton is a suburb in New South Wales that is exposed to a range of climate-related risks. The most significant threats are flooding and heatwaves, with bushfire risk also being a concern.

Flooding is a notable risk due to the suburb's proximity to waterways. Increased rainfall intensity, driven by climate change, could lead to more frequent and severe flooding events. Residents should stay informed about flood warnings and take necessary precautions.

Heatwaves are another major concern for Clifton. Rising temperatures are expected to increase the frequency and intensity of heatwaves, posing a significant risk to vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and those with chronic health conditions. It is important to have strategies in place to cope with extreme heat.

Bushfire risk is moderate, influenced by nearby bushland. Drier conditions and higher temperatures could elevate this risk, making it essential to maintain properties and be aware of bushfire safety measures.

While coastal risks are low due to Clifton's inland location, the suburb is still indirectly affected by broader climate change impacts. Addressing these risks through adaptation measures and community preparedness is crucial for ensuring the long-term resilience of Clifton.

Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · NSW SES · NSW RFS

Local Government Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main climate risks in Clifton?

The main climate risks in Clifton are flooding, heatwaves, and bushfires. These risks are expected to increase with climate change.

How can I prepare for flooding in Clifton?

You can prepare for flooding by checking local flood maps, having an emergency plan, and ensuring your property is adequately protected.

What should I do during a heatwave in Clifton?

During a heatwave, stay hydrated, seek air-conditioned environments, and check on vulnerable neighbors.

How can I protect my property from bushfires in Clifton?

You can protect your property by maintaining vegetation, clearing gutters, and having a bushfire survival plan.

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

You can find more information on the local council website, the NSW government's climate change website, and from scientific organizations like CSIRO.

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