Climate Risk in Matraville, NSW
Matraville faces moderate climate risks, primarily from flooding, heatwaves, and coastal hazards. Sea level rise and increased rainfall intensity are key drivers of these risks. Residents should prepare for more frequent and intense extreme weather events.
Overall Risk Score
Confidence: Medium
Hazard Breakdown
Climate Hazard Breakdown for Matraville
Flood
Matraville faces a moderate risk of flooding due to its proximity to coastal areas and low-lying regions. Intense rainfall events can lead to stormwater runoff and potential inundation.
Key drivers:
- ·Increased rainfall intensity
- ·Sea level rise
Bushfire
Bushfire risk in Matraville is relatively low compared to other areas in NSW, but some pockets near parks and reserves may experience elevated risk during dry periods.
Key drivers:
- ·Dry vegetation
- ·High temperatures
Heat
Matraville is susceptible to heatwaves, particularly during the summer months. Urban areas experience higher temperatures due to the urban heat island effect.
Key drivers:
- ·Rising global temperatures
- ·Urban heat island effect
Coastal
Matraville experiences a moderate risk from coastal hazards such as erosion and inundation due to sea level rise. Low-lying coastal areas are particularly vulnerable.
Key drivers:
- ·Sea level rise
- ·Storm surges
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 Matraville
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
Matraville is susceptible to heatwaves, particularly during the summer months. Urban areas experience higher temperatures due to the urban heat island effect.
Primary Drivers
- ·Rising global temperatures
- ·Urban heat island effect
- ·Reduced vegetation cover
Projections (RCP8.5)
2030
7.5
2050
8.0
flood Risk
Matraville faces a moderate risk of flooding due to its proximity to coastal areas and low-lying regions. Intense rainfall events can lead to stormwater runoff and potential inundation.
Primary Drivers
- ·Increased rainfall intensity
- ·Sea level rise
- ·Urban development
Projections (RCP8.5)
2030
6.5
2050
7.0
coastal Risk
Matraville experiences a moderate risk from coastal hazards such as erosion and inundation due to sea level rise. Low-lying coastal areas are particularly vulnerable.
Primary Drivers
- ·Sea level rise
- ·Storm surges
- ·Coastal erosion
Projections (RCP8.5)
2030
5.5
2050
6.0
bushfire Risk
Bushfire risk in Matraville is relatively low compared to other areas in NSW, but some pockets near parks and reserves may experience elevated risk during dry periods.
Primary Drivers
- ·Dry vegetation
- ·High temperatures
- ·Wind
Projections (RCP4.5)
2030
4.2
2050
4.5
What This Means for Property Owners
Insurance Outlook
Insurance premiums may increase in areas prone to flooding and coastal hazards.
Price Impact
Properties in high-risk areas may experience a decrease in value.
Buyer Checklist
- 1.Check flood maps and coastal hazard reports
- 2.Assess property's elevation and drainage
- 3.Consider potential impacts of sea level rise
- 4.Review insurance options and premiums
- 5.Inspect for signs of past flooding or erosion
Local Climate Evidence
Flood Evidence
- Nearest Waterway
- Botany Bay
- Elevation Range
- 0-30 meters
- Flood Zone
- Coastal and riverine floodplains
Several areas in Matraville are identified as potential flood zones in the Randwick City Council's flood studies.
View council flood mapBushfire Evidence
- Distance to Bushland
- Within 2km of some reserves
- Planning Overlay
- RFS Bush Fire Prone Land Map
- Bushfire Prone Area
- Yes
Some properties adjacent to parks and reserves are designated as bushfire prone areas.
Heat Evidence
- Avg January Max Temp
- 27.5°C
- Heat Stress Days/Year
- 3 days
Average maximum temperatures in January are increasing, leading to more frequent heat stress events.
Coastal Evidence
- Distance to Coast
- 1 km
- Sea Level Rise Exposure
- Low-lying areas exposed to sea level rise
- Erosion Risk
- Moderate erosion risk along some beaches
Historical Climate Events
A prolonged heatwave resulted in increased hospital admissions and strain on infrastructure.
SourceClimate Outlook to 2050
Projections based on CSIRO and BOM climate modelling. Scenario: RCP8.5
| Hazard | Today | 2030 | 2050 |
|---|---|---|---|
| flood | 60 | 6.5(+0.5) | 7.0(+1.0) |
| bushfire | 40 | 4.2(+0.2) | 4.5(+0.5) |
| heat | 70 | 7.8(+0.8) | 8.5(+1.5) |
| coastal | 50 | 5.3(+0.3) | 5.7(+0.7) |
By 2030, Matraville is projected to experience an increase in the frequency and intensity of heatwaves, as well as a higher risk of flooding due to increased rainfall and sea level rise. Coastal erosion is also expected to worsen.
CSIRO Climate ProjectionsAdaptation Recommendations
Upgrade stormwater infrastructure
Near-termInvest in upgrading stormwater drainage systems to handle increased rainfall intensity and reduce the risk of flooding.
Est. cost: High
Learn moreImplement heatwave management plan
ImmediateDevelop and implement a heatwave management plan to protect vulnerable populations during extreme heat events.
Est. cost: Medium
Learn moreProtect coastal areas
Long-termImplement coastal protection measures such as seawalls and beach nourishment to mitigate the impacts of sea level rise and erosion.
Est. cost: Very High
Learn morePromote water conservation
Near-termEncourage water conservation measures to reduce demand on water resources during periods of drought.
Est. cost: Low
Learn moreCommunity awareness programs
ImmediateEducate the community about climate change risks and adaptation measures through workshops and online resources.
Est. cost: Low
Learn moreAbout Matraville's Climate Risk Profile
Matraville, a coastal suburb in Sydney, is increasingly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. The primary risks include flooding from increased rainfall and sea level rise, more frequent and intense heatwaves, and coastal erosion. These hazards pose a threat to property, infrastructure, and public health.
Flooding is a significant concern due to the suburb's low-lying areas and proximity to the coast. Intense rainfall events can overwhelm stormwater systems, leading to inundation of streets and properties. Sea level rise exacerbates this risk, increasing the likelihood of coastal flooding during high tides and storm surges.
Heatwaves are becoming more frequent and severe, posing a particular risk to vulnerable populations such as the elderly and those with chronic health conditions. The urban heat island effect further amplifies temperatures in built-up areas, making it essential to implement strategies to reduce heat exposure.
Coastal erosion is another growing concern, threatening beaches and coastal infrastructure. Sea level rise and increased storm intensity contribute to erosion, requiring ongoing monitoring and management to protect coastal assets.
Addressing these climate risks requires a multi-faceted approach, including investments in infrastructure upgrades, implementation of adaptation measures, and community education and awareness programs. By taking proactive steps, Matraville can enhance its resilience to the impacts of climate change and ensure a sustainable future for its residents.
Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · NSW SES · Randwick City Council
Local Government Resources
Randwick City Council
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main climate change risks in Matraville?
The main climate change risks in Matraville include flooding, heatwaves, and coastal erosion due to sea level rise and increased storm intensity.
How will sea level rise affect Matraville?
Sea level rise will increase the risk of coastal flooding and erosion, particularly in low-lying areas. It may also impact coastal infrastructure and property values.
What is the council doing to address climate change?
Randwick City Council is implementing various strategies to address climate change, including upgrading stormwater infrastructure, promoting water conservation, and developing a heatwave management plan.
How can I prepare for heatwaves in Matraville?
To prepare for heatwaves, stay hydrated, seek air-conditioned environments, avoid strenuous activities during the hottest part of the day, and check on vulnerable neighbors and family members.
Where can I find information about flood risks in Matraville?
You can find information about flood risks in Matraville on the Randwick City Council website, including flood maps and coastal hazard reports.
Are there any bushfire risks in Matraville?
While the overall bushfire risk is relatively low, some areas near parks and reserves may experience elevated risk during dry periods. Check the NSW RFS website for bushfire prone land maps.
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