Climate Risk in Coraki, New South Wales

Coraki, New South Wales· Richmond Valley· 2471
High Risk
Updated Mar 2026

Coraki faces significant climate risks, particularly from flooding and heatwaves. Bushfire risk is moderate and increasing. Coastal risks are indirect but contribute to overall flood vulnerability.

Overall Risk Score

7.2/10
High

Confidence: Medium

Hazard Breakdown

Flood
8.5
Bushfire
6.0
Heat
7.0
Coastal
3.0

Detailed Hazard Analysis

heat Risk

7.0/10

Coraki experiences hot summers, and the frequency and intensity of heatwaves are projected to increase, posing a risk to vulnerable populations.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Rising average temperatures
  • ·More frequent heatwaves
  • ·Urban heat island effect

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

7.4

2050

7.8

Data source

flood Risk

8.5/10

Coraki is highly susceptible to flooding due to its location on the Richmond River floodplain. The risk is expected to increase with climate change.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Increased rainfall intensity
  • ·Sea level rise
  • ·Riverine flooding

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

8.8

2050

9.2

Data source

coastal Risk

3.0/10

While not directly on the coast, Coraki is still indirectly affected by coastal changes due to its location on the Richmond River. Sea level rise can exacerbate flooding.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Sea level rise
  • ·Increased storm surge

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

3.3

2050

3.6

Data source

bushfire Risk

6.0/10

The area surrounding Coraki has a moderate bushfire risk due to nearby bushland. Hotter, drier conditions will likely exacerbate this risk.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Increased temperatures
  • ·Drier vegetation
  • ·Stronger winds

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

6.3

2050

6.7

Data source

What This Means for Property Owners

Insurance Outlook

Insurance premiums are likely to increase due to flood and bushfire risks.

Price Impact

Properties in flood-prone areas may experience price reductions.

Buyer Checklist

  • 1.Check flood maps and historical flood data.
  • 2.Assess bushfire risk and building compliance.
  • 3.Consider the impact of heatwaves on property value.
  • 4.Review insurance options and premiums.

Local Climate Evidence

Flood Evidence

Nearest Waterway
Richmond River
Elevation Range
5-10 meters
Flood Zone
High Risk

Historical flood data indicates frequent inundation of low-lying areas in Coraki.

View council flood map

Bushfire Evidence

Distance to Bushland
Adjacent
Planning Overlay
https://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/plan-and-prepare/bush-fire-prone-land
Bushfire Prone Area
Yes

The area is designated as bushfire prone, requiring specific building standards for new constructions.

Heat Evidence

Avg January Max Temp
31.5°C
Heat Stress Days/Year
5 days

The number of days exceeding 35°C is projected to increase significantly.

Coastal Evidence

Distance to Coast
25 km
Sea Level Rise Exposure
Indirectly exposed through riverine flooding exacerbated by sea level rise.
Erosion Risk
Low

Historical Climate Events

2022
floodMajor

Severe flooding of the Richmond River inundated much of Coraki, causing widespread damage and displacement.

Source
2019
bushfireModerate

Bushfires in the surrounding region caused smoky conditions and heightened fire danger in Coraki.

Source
2017
floodModerate

Significant flooding along the Richmond River impacted Coraki, leading to road closures and property damage.

Source
2013
floodMinor

Minor flooding affected low-lying areas of Coraki.

Source

Climate Outlook to 2050

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

HazardToday20302050
flood8.58.8(+0.3)9.2(+0.7)
bushfire6.06.2(+0.2)6.4(+0.4)
heat7.07.4(+0.4)7.8(+0.8)
coastal3.03.1(+0.1)3.3(+0.3)

By 2030, Coraki is projected to experience more frequent and intense flooding, increased bushfire risk, and more severe heatwaves. Sea level rise will exacerbate flooding along the Richmond River.

CSIRO Climate Projections

Adaptation Recommendations

Improve Flood Defenses

Immediate

Invest in levees, flood barriers, and improved drainage systems to protect Coraki from flooding.

Est. cost: High

Learn more

Bushfire Mitigation

Near-term

Implement bushfire mitigation measures, such as hazard reduction burns and community education programs.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Heatwave Preparedness

Immediate

Develop a heatwave preparedness plan, including cooling centers and public awareness campaigns.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

Raise Awareness

Long-term

Educate residents about climate risks and adaptation strategies.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

Strengthen Infrastructure

Near-term

Upgrade infrastructure to withstand extreme weather events.

Est. cost: High

Learn more

About Coraki's Climate Risk Profile

Coraki, located in the Richmond Valley of New South Wales, is particularly vulnerable to flooding due to its position on the Richmond River floodplain. Climate change is expected to increase the frequency and intensity of heavy rainfall events, leading to more severe and prolonged flooding.

Bushfire risk is also a concern, with surrounding bushland posing a threat, especially during hot and dry periods. Rising temperatures and drier conditions will likely exacerbate bushfire danger.

Heatwaves are becoming more frequent and intense, impacting the health and well-being of residents, especially the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions. The urban heat island effect can further amplify these impacts.

While not directly on the coast, Coraki is indirectly affected by sea level rise, which can worsen flooding along the Richmond River. Adaptation measures are crucial to protect the community and infrastructure from these climate-related hazards.

Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · NSW RFS · Richmond Valley Council

Local Government Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main climate change risks for Coraki?

The main risks are increased flooding, more frequent and intense heatwaves, and a higher bushfire risk.

How will climate change affect property values in Coraki?

Properties in flood-prone areas may experience price reductions, and insurance premiums are likely to increase.

What is the council doing to address climate change?

The Richmond Valley Council is developing and implementing climate adaptation strategies to protect the community and infrastructure.

How can I prepare my home for flooding?

Consider raising your home, installing flood barriers, and ensuring proper drainage.

What should I do during a heatwave?

Stay indoors in air-conditioned spaces, drink plenty of water, and avoid strenuous activities.

Where can I find information about bushfire risks in Coraki?

The NSW Rural Fire Service website provides information about bushfire prone areas and fire safety.

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