Climate Risk Profile: Gladesville, NSW

Gladesville, New South Wales· City of Ryde· 2111
Medium Risk
Updated May 2026

Gladesville, NSW, faces moderate climate risks, primarily from flooding, heatwaves, and coastal inundation. The suburb's proximity to the Parramatta River and urban density contribute to these vulnerabilities. Climate change projections indicate an increasing trend in these risks, requiring proactive adaptation measures.

Overall Risk Score

55/100
Medium

Confidence: Medium

Hazard Breakdown

Flood
6.0
Bushfire
3.0
Heat
7.0
Coastal
6.0

Climate Hazard Breakdown for Gladesville

increasing

Flood

60/100

Gladesville faces a moderate risk of flooding due to its proximity to the Parramatta River and local waterways. Intense rainfall events can lead to riverine and flash flooding.

Key drivers:

  • ·Increased rainfall intensity
  • ·Urban development
stable

Bushfire

30/100

The bushfire risk in Gladesville is relatively low due to the suburb's urban nature and limited vegetation. However, areas bordering parks and reserves may experience some risk.

Key drivers:

  • ·Proximity to bushland
  • ·Dry vegetation
increasing

Heat

70/100

Gladesville is susceptible to heatwaves, with increasing average temperatures posing a risk to vulnerable populations. Urban heat island effect exacerbates the impact.

Key drivers:

  • ·Rising average temperatures
  • ·Urban heat island effect
increasing

Coastal

60/100

Gladesville faces a moderate coastal risk due to its location on the Parramatta River. Sea level rise and storm surges can lead to inundation and erosion.

Key drivers:

  • ·Sea level rise
  • ·Increased storm intensity
stable

Wind

28/100

Moderate wind risk — East Coast Lows and gust fronts

stable

Storm

39/100

Moderate storm risk — severe thunderstorms and hail

stable

Social

21/100

Moderate social stability — mixed urban density

increasing

Energy

35/100

Moderate energy costs — climate-driven cooling demand

In-Depth Climate Risk Guides for Gladesville

Detailed Hazard Analysis

heat Risk

70/100

Gladesville is susceptible to heatwaves, with increasing average temperatures posing a risk to vulnerable populations. Urban heat island effect exacerbates the impact.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Rising average temperatures
  • ·Urban heat island effect
  • ·Increased frequency of heatwaves

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

7.5

2050

8.0

Data source

flood Risk

60/100

Gladesville faces a moderate risk of flooding due to its proximity to the Parramatta River and local waterways. Intense rainfall events can lead to riverine and flash flooding.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Increased rainfall intensity
  • ·Urban development
  • ·Sea level rise

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

6.5

2050

7.0

Data source

coastal Risk

60/100

Gladesville faces a moderate coastal risk due to its location on the Parramatta River. Sea level rise and storm surges can lead to inundation and erosion.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Sea level rise
  • ·Increased storm intensity
  • ·Erosion

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

6.5

2050

7.0

Data source

bushfire Risk

30/100

The bushfire risk in Gladesville is relatively low due to the suburb's urban nature and limited vegetation. However, areas bordering parks and reserves may experience some risk.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Proximity to bushland
  • ·Dry vegetation
  • ·Wind patterns

Projections (RCP4.5)

2030

3.2

2050

3.5

Data source

What This Means for Property Owners

Insurance Outlook

Insurance premiums may increase in areas prone to flooding and coastal inundation.

Price Impact

Properties in high-risk areas may experience price stagnation or decline.

Buyer Checklist

  • 1.Check flood maps and historical flood data.
  • 2.Assess property's elevation and drainage.
  • 3.Inquire about council's climate adaptation plans.
  • 4.Consider potential impacts of heatwaves on property value.
  • 5.Review insurance options and premiums.

Local Climate Evidence

Flood Evidence

Nearest Waterway
Parramatta River
Elevation Range
5-30 meters
Flood Zone
Areas near the Parramatta River are designated as flood zones.

Historical flood events have impacted properties along the riverfront. Council maintains flood maps and provides guidance on flood preparedness.

View council flood map

Bushfire Evidence

Distance to Bushland
Approximately 2km to Lane Cove National Park
Planning Overlay
Some areas may be subject to bushfire overlays.
Bushfire Prone Area
Yes

While the immediate area is largely urbanized, proximity to larger bushland areas necessitates awareness and preparedness.

Heat Evidence

Avg January Max Temp
29.5°C
Heat Stress Days/Year
4 days

Urban density contributes to the urban heat island effect, increasing local temperatures.

Coastal Evidence

Distance to Coast
10 km
Sea Level Rise Exposure
Low-lying areas near the river are susceptible to sea level rise.
Erosion Risk
Minimal erosion risk in most areas.

Historical Climate Events

1990
floodModerate

Significant flooding along the Parramatta River impacted low-lying areas of Gladesville.

Source
2011
floodModerate

Heavy rainfall caused flash flooding in parts of Gladesville, affecting local businesses and residences.

Source
2013
heatwaveModerate

Prolonged heatwave conditions led to increased hospital admissions and strain on infrastructure.

Source
2020
stormModerate

Severe storm caused localized flooding and power outages in Gladesville.

Source

Climate Outlook to 2050

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

HazardToday20302050
flood606.5(+0.5)7.0(+1.0)
bushfire303.2(+0.2)3.5(+0.5)
heat707.8(+0.8)8.5(+1.5)
coastal606.5(+0.5)7.0(+1.0)

By 2030, Gladesville is projected to experience a notable increase in heatwave frequency and intensity, along with a heightened risk of flooding due to more intense rainfall events. Sea level rise will also exacerbate coastal inundation risks.

CSIRO Climate Projections

Adaptation Recommendations

Upgrade Drainage Infrastructure

Near-term

Improve stormwater drainage systems to mitigate the risk of flash flooding during heavy rainfall events.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Implement Heatwave Management Plan

Immediate

Develop and implement a heatwave management plan to protect vulnerable populations during extreme heat events.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

Enhance Green Spaces

Near-term

Increase green spaces and tree canopy cover to reduce the urban heat island effect and improve air quality.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Raise Awareness of Climate Risks

Long-term

Conduct community awareness campaigns to educate residents about climate risks and adaptation measures.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

Strengthen Coastal Defenses

Long-term

Invest in coastal protection measures to mitigate the impacts of sea level rise and storm surges.

Est. cost: High

Learn more

About Gladesville's Climate Risk Profile

Gladesville, located in New South Wales, is exposed to several climate-related risks that are projected to intensify in the coming decades. Flooding is a significant concern due to the suburb's location along the Parramatta River, making it vulnerable to riverine and flash flooding during heavy rainfall events. The increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, driven by climate change, exacerbate this risk.

Heatwaves pose another substantial threat to Gladesville, particularly for vulnerable populations such as the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions. The urban heat island effect, caused by the concentration of buildings and paved surfaces, further amplifies the impact of heatwaves, leading to higher temperatures and increased heat stress.

Coastal risks, including sea level rise and storm surges, also affect Gladesville due to its proximity to the Parramatta River. Rising sea levels can lead to inundation of low-lying areas, while storm surges can cause significant damage to infrastructure and property.

Addressing these climate risks requires a comprehensive and coordinated approach involving local government, residents, and businesses. Implementing adaptation measures, such as improving drainage infrastructure, increasing green spaces, and developing heatwave management plans, is crucial to building resilience and protecting the community from the impacts of climate change.

Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · NSW SES · City of Ryde Council

Local Government Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main climate change risks for Gladesville?

Gladesville faces increasing risks from flooding, heatwaves, and coastal inundation due to climate change. These risks are projected to intensify in the coming decades, potentially impacting infrastructure, property, and public health.

How is the City of Ryde addressing climate change?

The City of Ryde is implementing various initiatives to address climate change, including upgrading drainage infrastructure, enhancing green spaces, and developing heatwave management plans. The council also provides resources and information to help residents prepare for climate-related risks.

What can residents do to prepare for flooding in Gladesville?

Residents can take several steps to prepare for flooding, such as checking flood maps, assessing their property's elevation and drainage, and developing a flood emergency plan. It's also important to stay informed about weather forecasts and warnings.

How can I protect myself during a heatwave in Gladesville?

During a heatwave, it's important to stay hydrated, seek air-conditioned environments, and avoid strenuous activities. Check on vulnerable neighbors and family members, and be aware of the signs of heat stress.

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

You can find more information about climate change impacts in Gladesville on the City of Ryde website, the NSW Department of Planning and Environment website, and the CSIRO website. These resources provide data, projections, and guidance on climate adaptation.

Is Gladesville considered a bushfire prone area?

Yes, Gladesville is considered a bushfire prone area due to its proximity to Lane Cove National Park and other bushland areas. Residents should be aware of bushfire risks and take steps to prepare their properties.

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What A$69 could save you from

$7.2B
2022 insured disaster losses*
$300B+
climate risk to property by 2050*
30-120%
insurance premium increases in high-risk areas*

*Industry sources: ICA, APRA, RBA

Full report from A$69 · Australian addresses only · 8 hazard scores · Insurance trajectory · 2030 & 2050 projections