Climate Risk in Manly, NSW

Manly, New South Wales· Northern Beaches Council· 2095
Medium Risk
Updated Mar 2026

Manly faces a moderate climate risk, primarily driven by coastal hazards, heatwaves, and flooding. Sea level rise and increased storm intensity pose significant threats to coastal areas. Residents should prepare for more frequent and intense heatwaves during summer.

Overall Risk Score

5.8/10
Medium

Confidence: Medium

Hazard Breakdown

Flood
6.5
Bushfire
3.0
Heat
7.0
Coastal
6.5

Detailed Hazard Analysis

heat Risk

7.0/10

Manly experiences high heat risk, particularly during summer months. Urban areas retain heat, leading to elevated temperatures and heat stress.

Primary Drivers

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

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

7.5

2050

8.0

Data source

flood Risk

6.5/10

Manly faces a moderate risk of flooding due to its low-lying areas and proximity to waterways. Intense rainfall events can lead to flash flooding.

Primary Drivers

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

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

7.0

2050

7.5

Data source

coastal Risk

6.5/10

Manly is highly vulnerable to coastal hazards due to its location on the coast. Sea level rise and storm surges pose significant threats to infrastructure and property.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Sea level rise
  • ·Increased storm intensity
  • ·Coastal erosion

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

7.0

2050

7.5

Data source

bushfire Risk

3.0/10

Bushfire risk in Manly is relatively low due to its urban environment and limited vegetation. However, areas bordering bushland are still susceptible.

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 high-risk areas.

Price Impact

Properties in coastal areas may experience price fluctuations due to climate risks.

Buyer Checklist

  • 1.Check flood maps and bushfire prone area designations.
  • 2.Assess property's vulnerability to sea level rise and coastal erosion.
  • 3.Inquire about insurance costs and coverage.
  • 4.Consider energy efficiency and water conservation measures.

Local Climate Evidence

Flood Evidence

Nearest Waterway
Manly Lagoon
Elevation Range
0-50 meters
Flood Zone
Areas near Manly Lagoon and low-lying coastal areas are prone to flooding.

Historical flood events have impacted properties near Manly Lagoon. Council flood studies are available online.

View council flood map

Bushfire Evidence

Distance to Bushland
Areas bordering Garigal National Park are at higher risk.
Planning Overlay
Check NSW RFS website for current bushfire prone areas.
Bushfire Prone Area
Yes

Residents in bushfire prone areas should have a bushfire survival plan.

Heat Evidence

Avg January Max Temp
27.5°C
Heat Stress Days/Year
3 days

The urban heat island effect can increase temperatures by several degrees in built-up areas.

Coastal Evidence

Distance to Coast
0.1 km
Sea Level Rise Exposure
Low-lying coastal areas are exposed to sea level rise.
Erosion Risk
Beaches are vulnerable to erosion during storm events.

Historical Climate Events

2007
stormModerate

A major storm caused significant damage to coastal areas, including beach erosion and flooding.

Source
2020
floodModerate

Heavy rainfall led to flash flooding in low-lying areas, disrupting transportation and damaging property.

Source
2013
heatwaveModerate

A prolonged heatwave resulted in increased heat stress and strain on infrastructure.

Source
1974
stormMajor

The 'Sygna Storm' caused widespread coastal erosion and damage along the NSW coast, including Manly.

Source

Climate Outlook to 2050

Projections based on CSIRO and BOM climate modelling. Scenario: RCP4.5

HazardToday20302050
flood6.56.8(+0.3)7.2(+0.7)
bushfire3.03.1(+0.1)3.2(+0.2)
heat7.07.6(+0.6)8.5(+1.5)
coastal6.56.9(+0.4)7.5(+1.0)

By 2030, Manly is projected to experience a moderate increase in overall climate risk. Heatwaves will become more frequent and intense, and coastal erosion will continue to be a concern.

CSIRO Climate Projections

Adaptation Recommendations

Upgrade Coastal Defenses

Near-term

Invest in seawalls, beach nourishment, and other coastal protection measures to mitigate erosion and flooding.

Est. cost: High

Learn more

Improve Heatwave Preparedness

Immediate

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

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Enhance Flood Management

Near-term

Improve drainage infrastructure and implement flood early warning systems.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Promote Water Conservation

Long-term

Encourage residents and businesses to adopt water-saving measures to reduce demand during droughts.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

Bushfire Preparedness

Near-term

Ensure properties bordering bushland have adequate fire breaks and residents have bushfire survival plans.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

About Manly's Climate Risk Profile

Manly, a coastal suburb in New South Wales, is increasingly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. The primary risks include coastal erosion, flooding, heatwaves, and bushfires.

Sea level rise poses a significant threat to Manly's beaches and coastal infrastructure. Increased storm surges can inundate low-lying areas, causing damage to property and disrupting daily life. Coastal erosion is already evident in some areas, and this is expected to worsen with rising sea levels.

Heatwaves are becoming more frequent and intense, particularly during the summer months. The urban heat island effect exacerbates the problem, leading to elevated temperatures and increased heat stress for residents. Vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and those with chronic health conditions, are particularly at risk.

Flooding is another concern, especially during periods of heavy rainfall. Low-lying areas are susceptible to flash flooding, which can damage property and disrupt transportation. Climate change is expected to increase the intensity of rainfall events, further increasing the risk of flooding.

While bushfire risk is relatively low compared to other parts of NSW, areas bordering bushland are still vulnerable. Dry vegetation and strong winds can create conditions conducive to bushfires, posing a threat to homes and businesses.

Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · NSW State Emergency Service · Northern Beaches Council

Local Government Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main climate change risks in Manly?

The main climate change risks in Manly include sea level rise, coastal erosion, increased frequency and intensity of heatwaves, and flooding.

How will sea level rise affect Manly?

Sea level rise will exacerbate coastal erosion, inundate low-lying areas, and damage coastal infrastructure.

What is the council doing to address climate change?

The Northern Beaches Council has a climate change strategy that outlines actions to reduce emissions and adapt to the impacts of climate change.

How can I prepare for heatwaves in Manly?

Stay hydrated, seek air-conditioned environments, avoid strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day, and check on vulnerable neighbors.

Where can I find information about flood risks in Manly?

You can find information about flood risks on the Northern Beaches Council website and the NSW State Emergency Service website.

Are there any bushfire risks in Manly?

While Manly is largely urbanised, areas bordering Garigal National Park are at risk. Check the NSW RFS website for bushfire prone areas.

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