Climate Risk in Greenwell Point, NSW
Greenwell Point faces a number of climate-related risks, particularly from flooding and coastal inundation. Rising sea levels and increased rainfall intensity are key drivers of these risks. Residents should prepare for more frequent and severe weather events.
Overall Risk Score
Confidence: Medium
Hazard Breakdown
Climate Hazard Breakdown for Greenwell Point
Flood
Greenwell Point is highly susceptible to flooding due to its low elevation and proximity to the Crookhaven River. Riverine and flash flooding are both potential concerns.
Key drivers:
- ·Sea level rise
- ·Increased rainfall intensity
Bushfire
Bushfire risk in Greenwell Point is moderate. While not directly surrounded by dense bushland, the presence of nearby vegetation and prevailing winds contribute to the risk.
Key drivers:
- ·Dry vegetation
- ·High temperatures
Heat
Greenwell Point experiences moderately high temperatures during summer, with potential for heatwaves. The aging population is particularly vulnerable.
Key drivers:
- ·Rising average temperatures
- ·Increased frequency of heatwaves
Coastal
Greenwell Point is vulnerable to coastal inundation and erosion due to its low-lying coastal location. Sea level rise poses a significant threat to infrastructure and property.
Key drivers:
- ·Sea level rise
- ·Increased storm surge
Wind
Moderate wind risk — East Coast Lows and gust fronts
Storm
Moderate storm risk — severe thunderstorms and hail
Social
Moderate social stability — mixed urban density
Energy
Moderate energy costs — climate-driven cooling demand
In-Depth Climate Risk Guides for Greenwell Point
Property buying guide with climate risk assessment
Flood zone mapping, historical events, and projections
BAL assessment, vegetation proximity, and fire history
Multi-hazard safety assessment to 2050
Severe weather, hail, and wind risk analysis
Extreme heat days, urban heat island, and cooling costs
Premium estimates and insurance availability
Climate-adjusted property investment analysis
Detailed Hazard Analysis
heat Risk
Greenwell Point experiences moderately high temperatures during summer, with potential for heatwaves. The aging population is particularly vulnerable.
Primary Drivers
- ·Rising average temperatures
- ·Increased frequency of heatwaves
- ·Urban heat island effect
Projections (RCP8.5)
2030
6.5
2050
7.0
flood Risk
Greenwell Point is highly susceptible to flooding due to its low elevation and proximity to the Crookhaven River. Riverine and flash flooding are both potential concerns.
Primary Drivers
- ·Sea level rise
- ·Increased rainfall intensity
- ·Storm surge
Projections (RCP8.5)
2030
8.0
2050
8.5
coastal Risk
Greenwell Point is vulnerable to coastal inundation and erosion due to its low-lying coastal location. Sea level rise poses a significant threat to infrastructure and property.
Primary Drivers
- ·Sea level rise
- ·Increased storm surge
- ·Coastal erosion
Projections (RCP8.5)
2030
7.0
2050
7.5
bushfire Risk
Bushfire risk in Greenwell Point is moderate. While not directly surrounded by dense bushland, the presence of nearby vegetation and prevailing winds contribute to the risk.
Primary Drivers
- ·Dry vegetation
- ·High temperatures
- ·Strong winds
Projections (RCP8.5)
2030
3.2
2050
3.5
What This Means for Property Owners
Insurance Outlook
Premiums are likely to increase due to flood and coastal risks.
Price Impact
Properties in high-risk areas may experience price reductions.
Buyer Checklist
- 1.Check flood maps and insurance costs.
- 2.Assess bushfire risk and prepare a survival plan.
- 3.Consider the potential impacts of sea level rise.
- 4.Inquire about council plans for climate adaptation.
Local Climate Evidence
Flood Evidence
- Nearest Waterway
- Crookhaven River
- Elevation Range
- 0-5 meters
- Flood Zone
- High Risk
Historical flood events have impacted properties along the riverfront. Council is undertaking studies to better understand flood risks.
View council flood mapBushfire Evidence
- Distance to Bushland
- Within 1km
- Planning Overlay
- RFS Bushfire Prone Land
- Bushfire Prone Area
- Yes
Properties on the outskirts of Greenwell Point are designated as bushfire prone. Residents should maintain firebreaks and have a bushfire survival plan.
Heat Evidence
- Avg January Max Temp
- 27.5°C
- Heat Stress Days/Year
- 3 days
Elderly residents are particularly vulnerable to heat stress during summer months. Cooling centers may be activated during heatwaves.
Coastal Evidence
- Distance to Coast
- 0.5 km
- Sea Level Rise Exposure
- High
- Erosion Risk
- Moderate
Historical Climate Events
Major flooding of the Crookhaven River inundated low-lying areas of Greenwell Point, causing property damage and road closures.
SourceA bushfire near Greenwell Point threatened properties, but was contained by firefighters before causing significant damage.
SourceHeavy rainfall caused the Crookhaven River to flood, impacting low-lying areas and disrupting local businesses.
SourceClimate Outlook to 2050
Projections based on CSIRO and BOM climate modelling. Scenario: RCP8.5
| Hazard | Today | 2030 | 2050 |
|---|---|---|---|
| flood | 75 | 8.0(+0.5) | 8.5(+1.0) |
| bushfire | 30 | 3.2(+0.2) | 3.5(+0.5) |
| heat | 60 | 6.3(+0.3) | 6.7(+0.7) |
| coastal | 65 | 7.0(+0.5) | 7.5(+1.0) |
By 2030, Greenwell Point is projected to experience more frequent and intense flooding events due to increased rainfall and sea level rise. Heatwaves will also become more common, posing a risk to vulnerable populations. Bushfire risk will remain relatively stable.
CSIRO Climate ProjectionsAdaptation Recommendations
Improve Flood Defenses
ImmediateConstruct seawalls and levees to protect low-lying areas from coastal inundation and riverine flooding.
Est. cost: High
Learn moreUpgrade Drainage Infrastructure
Near-termImprove drainage systems to reduce the risk of flash flooding during heavy rainfall events.
Est. cost: Medium
Learn moreDevelop a Bushfire Management Plan
Near-termImplement a comprehensive bushfire management plan, including hazard reduction burns and community education programs.
Est. cost: Medium
Learn moreEstablish a Heatwave Response Plan
ImmediateDevelop a heatwave response plan to protect vulnerable populations during extreme heat events, including cooling centers and community outreach programs.
Est. cost: Low
Learn moreRelocate Critical Infrastructure
Long-termRelocate critical infrastructure, such as the power station and hospital, away from high-risk coastal areas.
Est. cost: Very High
Learn moreAbout Greenwell Point's Climate Risk Profile
Greenwell Point, located on the NSW South Coast, is a charming coastal village known for its fishing and natural beauty. However, its low-lying position makes it particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.
Flooding is a major concern, with the Crookhaven River posing a significant risk of riverine flooding. Flash flooding is also possible during periods of intense rainfall. Sea level rise exacerbates these risks, increasing the likelihood of coastal inundation and erosion.
Bushfire risk is moderate, with nearby vegetation posing a potential threat. Hot, dry conditions and strong winds can increase the risk of bushfires spreading to the village.
Rising temperatures and more frequent heatwaves are also a concern, particularly for vulnerable populations such as the elderly. Coastal erosion is an ongoing issue, threatening infrastructure and property along the shoreline.
Addressing these climate risks will require a coordinated effort from residents, local government, and state agencies. Adaptation measures such as improved drainage, seawalls, and bushfire management are essential to protect the community and its assets.
Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · NSW RFS · NSW SES
Local Government Resources
Shoalhaven City Council
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main climate change risks facing Greenwell Point?
Greenwell Point is primarily at risk from flooding, coastal inundation, and heatwaves. Sea level rise and increased rainfall intensity are key drivers of these risks.
How will climate change affect property values in Greenwell Point?
Properties in high-risk areas, such as those prone to flooding or coastal erosion, may experience price reductions. Insurance premiums are also likely to increase.
What is the council doing to address climate change in Greenwell Point?
Shoalhaven City Council is developing climate adaptation plans and investing in infrastructure upgrades to reduce the impacts of climate change. Specific details are not available online.
How can I prepare my home for flooding in Greenwell Point?
You can raise your home above flood level, install flood barriers, and ensure your property is properly insured. Check the council's website for flood maps and advice.
What should I do during a heatwave in Greenwell Point?
Stay indoors in air-conditioned environments, drink plenty of water, and check on vulnerable neighbors. Cooling centers may be activated during heatwaves.
Where can I find information about bushfire risks in Greenwell Point?
The NSW Rural Fire Service website provides information about bushfire risks, fire danger ratings, and bushfire survival plans.
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