Climate Risk in Dubbo, NSW
Dubbo faces moderate risks from flooding and heatwaves, with bushfire risk also present. Climate change is expected to exacerbate these risks in the future.
Overall Risk Score
Confidence: Medium
Hazard Breakdown
Detailed Hazard Analysis
heat Risk
Dubbo experiences high temperatures during summer, leading to heatwave conditions and potential health impacts.
Primary Drivers
- ·Climate change
- ·Urban heat island effect
Projections (RCP8.5)
2030
7.5
2050
8.0
flood Risk
Dubbo faces a moderate risk of flooding due to its location on the Macquarie River. Riverine flooding can occur after heavy rainfall events.
Primary Drivers
- ·Increased rainfall intensity
- ·Urban development
- ·Climate change
Projections (RCP8.5)
2030
7.0
2050
7.5
coastal Risk
Dubbo is located inland and does not face any direct coastal risks.
Projections (RCP8.5)
2030
1.0
2050
1.0
bushfire Risk
Bushfire risk in Dubbo is moderate, with surrounding grasslands and bushland posing a threat during dry periods and high winds.
Primary Drivers
- ·Dry vegetation
- ·High temperatures
- ·Wind
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 reductions.
Buyer Checklist
- 1.Check flood maps and insurance costs.
- 2.Assess property's vulnerability to heatwaves.
- 3.Consider bushfire risk mitigation measures.
Local Climate Evidence
Flood Evidence
- Nearest Waterway
- Macquarie River
- Elevation Range
- 250-300m
- Flood Zone
- Areas near the Macquarie River are designated flood zones.
The Dubbo Regional Council maintains flood maps and provides information on flood preparedness.
View council flood mapBushfire Evidence
- Distance to Bushland
- Surrounded by grasslands and scattered bushland.
- Planning Overlay
- NSW Rural Fire Service bushfire prone area map.
- Bushfire Prone Area
- Yes
Residents should maintain their properties to reduce bushfire risk.
Heat Evidence
- Avg January Max Temp
- 33°C
- Heat Stress Days/Year
- 5 days
Heatwaves are common in Dubbo during summer.
Coastal Evidence
- Distance to Coast
- 370 km
- Sea Level Rise Exposure
- Not applicable.
- Erosion Risk
- Not applicable.
Historical Climate Events
Climate Outlook to 2050
Projections based on CSIRO and BOM climate modelling. Scenario: RCP8.5
| Hazard | Today | 2030 | 2050 |
|---|---|---|---|
| flood | 6.5 | 7.0(+0.5) | 7.5(+1.0) |
| bushfire | 4.2 | 4.5(+0.3) | 4.7(+0.5) |
| heat | 7.0 | 7.7(+0.7) | 8.5(+1.5) |
| coastal | 1.0 | 1.0 | 1.0 |
By 2030, Dubbo is projected to experience an increase in the frequency and intensity of heatwaves and flooding events. Bushfire risk may also increase slightly.
CSIRO Climate ProjectionsAdaptation Recommendations
Improve flood defenses
Near-termInvest in levees and other flood control measures to protect low-lying areas of Dubbo.
Est. cost: High
Learn moreDevelop a heatwave management plan
ImmediateImplement a plan to protect vulnerable populations during heatwaves, including cooling centers and public awareness campaigns.
Est. cost: Medium
Learn moreReduce bushfire risk
Near-termImplement measures to reduce bushfire risk, such as controlled burns and vegetation management.
Est. cost: Medium
Learn moreUpgrade infrastructure
Long-termUpgrade infrastructure to be more resilient to climate change impacts, such as extreme weather events.
Est. cost: High
Learn moreAbout Dubbo's Climate Risk Profile
Dubbo, located in the central west of New South Wales, is exposed to a range of climate-related risks. The most significant of these is flooding, due to its proximity to the Macquarie River. Heavy rainfall events can cause the river to overflow, inundating low-lying areas of the town.
Heatwaves are also a major concern, with Dubbo experiencing high temperatures during the summer months. These heatwaves can put a strain on the local health system and can be particularly dangerous for vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and those with chronic health conditions.
Bushfire risk is also present, with surrounding grasslands and bushland posing a threat during dry periods and high winds. While not as frequent as floods or heatwaves, bushfires can have a devastating impact on the community.
Climate change is expected to exacerbate these risks in the future, with more frequent and intense heatwaves, increased rainfall intensity, and longer bushfire seasons. It is important for residents and businesses to take steps to prepare for these risks and to adapt to the changing climate.
Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · NSW SES · NSW RFS · Dubbo Regional Council
Local Government Resources
Dubbo Regional Council
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main climate risks facing Dubbo?
Dubbo faces risks from flooding, heatwaves, and bushfires. Climate change is expected to exacerbate these risks in the future.
How is the Dubbo Regional Council addressing climate change?
The Dubbo Regional Council has a sustainability strategy that includes measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to the impacts of climate change.
What can I do to prepare for heatwaves in Dubbo?
Stay indoors during the hottest part of the day, drink plenty of water, and check on vulnerable neighbors and family members.
How can I protect my property from flooding in Dubbo?
Check flood maps to see if your property is in a flood-prone area, and take steps to protect your property, such as raising electrical outlets and storing valuables above flood level.
What should I do during a bushfire in Dubbo?
Follow the advice of emergency services, and evacuate if necessary. Have a bushfire survival plan in place.
Get a Property-Specific Report
This suburb assessment covers the area. For a precise address-level climate risk report for any specific property in Dubbo, use our analysis tool.
Other Suburbs in New South Wales
Analyse Your Property Now
Enter your address below for an instant climate risk assessment covering flood, bushfire, and sea level rise and more.
Free instant preview · Full report from A$69 · Australian addresses only