Climate Risk in Lismore, NSW
Lismore faces significant climate risks, particularly from flooding and heatwaves. Bushfire risk is also a concern. Residents should prepare for more frequent and intense extreme weather events.
Overall Risk Score
Confidence: Medium
Hazard Breakdown
Detailed Hazard Analysis
heat Risk
Lismore experiences hot summers, and the number of extreme heat days is 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
7.3
2050
7.7
flood Risk
Lismore is highly susceptible to flooding due to its location on the Wilsons River floodplain. The risk is expected to increase with climate change.
Primary Drivers
- ·Increased rainfall intensity
- ·Rising river levels
- ·Inadequate drainage infrastructure
Projections (RCP8.5)
2030
8.8
2050
9.2
coastal Risk
Coastal risk is low due to Lismore's inland location. Sea level rise and coastal erosion are not direct threats.
Primary Drivers
- ·Distance from the coast
Projections (RCP8.5)
2030
2.0
2050
2.0
bushfire Risk
Bushfire risk is moderate, with areas of bushland surrounding the town. Hotter, drier conditions will likely increase the frequency and intensity of bushfires.
Primary Drivers
- ·Increased temperatures
- ·Drier vegetation
- ·Stronger winds
Projections (RCP8.5)
2030
6.3
2050
6.7
What This Means for Property Owners
Insurance Outlook
Insurance premiums are likely to increase due to the high flood risk.
Price Impact
Property values may be negatively impacted by the increased risk of flooding and other climate change impacts.
Buyer Checklist
- 1.Check flood maps and historical flood data.
- 2.Assess the property's vulnerability to bushfires.
- 3.Consider the potential impacts of heatwaves.
- 4.Obtain adequate insurance coverage.
Local Climate Evidence
Flood Evidence
- Nearest Waterway
- Wilsons River
- Elevation Range
- 10-30m
- Flood Zone
- Yes
Lismore has a long history of flooding, with major events occurring in 1954, 1974, 2017, and 2022. The council maintains flood maps and provides information to residents on how to prepare for floods.
View council flood mapBushfire Evidence
- Distance to Bushland
- Adjacent
- Planning Overlay
- https://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/plan-and-prepare/bush-fire-prone-land
- Bushfire Prone Area
- Yes
Much of the area surrounding Lismore is designated as bushfire-prone land. Residents should be aware of the risks and take steps to protect their homes and families.
Heat Evidence
- Avg January Max Temp
- 31.5°C
- Heat Stress Days/Year
- 5 days
Lismore experiences an average of 5 days per year with temperatures exceeding 35°C. Climate change is projected to increase the frequency and intensity of heatwaves.
Coastal Evidence
- Distance to Coast
- 45 km
- Sea Level Rise Exposure
- Low
- Erosion Risk
- Low
Historical Climate Events
Record-breaking floods inundated Lismore, causing widespread damage and displacement.
SourceMajor flooding event impacted Lismore, causing significant damage to homes and businesses.
SourceBushfires burned in the surrounding region, impacting air quality and causing concern for residents.
SourceProlonged heatwave conditions impacted Lismore, with temperatures exceeding 40°C for several days.
SourceClimate Outlook to 2050
Projections based on CSIRO and BOM climate modelling. Scenario: RCP4.5
| Hazard | Today | 2030 | 2050 | 2030 | 2050 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| flood | 8.5 | 8.7(+0.2) | 8.9(+0.4) | 8.9(+0.4) | 9.2(+0.7) |
| bushfire | 6.0 | 6.1(+0.1) | 6.2(+0.2) | 6.2(+0.2) | 6.4(+0.4) |
| heat | 7.0 | 7.4(+0.4) | 7.7(+0.7) | 7.6(+0.6) | 8.0(+1.0) |
| coastal | 2.0 | 2.0 | 2.0 | 2.0 | 2.0 |
Under a moderate emissions scenario, Lismore is projected to experience a slight increase in overall climate risk, with the most significant impacts from heatwaves and flooding.
CSIRO Climate ProjectionsAdaptation Recommendations
Improve flood defenses
ImmediateInvest in infrastructure to protect against flooding, such as levees, floodgates, and improved drainage systems.
Est. cost: High
Learn moreDevelop a heatwave plan
Near-termImplement a plan to protect vulnerable populations during heatwaves, including cooling centers and public awareness campaigns.
Est. cost: Medium
Learn moreStrengthen building codes
Near-termUpdate building codes to require new buildings to be more resilient to flooding, bushfires, and heatwaves.
Est. cost: Medium
Learn moreEnhance community awareness
Long-termEducate residents about climate change risks and how to prepare for extreme weather events.
Est. cost: Low
Learn moreImprove emergency response
ImmediateStrengthen emergency response capabilities to ensure that residents can be quickly and effectively assisted during extreme weather events.
Est. cost: Medium
Learn moreAbout Lismore's Climate Risk Profile
Lismore is located in the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales and is highly vulnerable to flooding due to its position on the Wilsons River floodplain. Historical flood events have caused significant damage and disruption, and climate change is expected to exacerbate this risk. Increased rainfall intensity and rising river levels will likely lead to more frequent and severe floods.
Bushfire risk is also a concern, with areas of bushland surrounding the town. Hotter, drier conditions will increase the likelihood of bushfires, posing a threat to homes and infrastructure. Residents should be aware of bushfire safety measures and have a plan in place.
Heatwaves are another significant risk, with Lismore experiencing hot summers. The number of extreme heat days is projected to increase, which can have serious health impacts, particularly for vulnerable populations such as the elderly and those with chronic health conditions.
While coastal risks are relatively low due to Lismore's inland location, the town is still indirectly affected by climate change impacts on the broader region. Changes in rainfall patterns and increased temperatures can affect agriculture and water resources, impacting the local economy and environment.
Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · NSW RFS · Lismore City Council
Local Government Resources
Lismore City Council
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main climate change risks in Lismore?
The main climate change risks in Lismore are flooding, bushfires, and heatwaves. Flooding is the most significant risk due to the town's location on the Wilsons River floodplain. Bushfire risk is also a concern, with areas of bushland surrounding the town. Heatwaves are becoming more frequent and intense, posing a risk to vulnerable populations.
How is Lismore City Council addressing climate change?
Lismore City Council is working to address climate change through a range of initiatives, including improving flood defenses, developing a heatwave plan, and promoting sustainable development. The council also provides information to residents on how to prepare for extreme weather events.
What can I do to prepare for flooding in Lismore?
To prepare for flooding in Lismore, you should check flood maps and historical flood data, assess your property's vulnerability to flooding, and develop a flood plan. You should also obtain adequate insurance coverage and be aware of evacuation routes.
How can I protect my home from bushfires in Lismore?
To protect your home from bushfires in Lismore, you should clear vegetation around your home, install fire-resistant materials, and have a bushfire survival plan. You should also be aware of fire danger ratings and take precautions on high-risk days.
What should I do during a heatwave in Lismore?
During a heatwave in Lismore, you should stay indoors in air-conditioned buildings, drink plenty of water, and avoid strenuous activity. You should also check on vulnerable neighbors and be aware of the symptoms of heatstroke.
Where can I find more information about climate change in Lismore?
You can find more information about climate change in Lismore on the Lismore City Council website, the NSW Government website, and the CSIRO website. You can also contact local emergency services for information on how to prepare for extreme weather events.
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