Climate Risk Profile: St Clair, NSW
St Clair is a suburb in New South Wales that faces moderate risks from flooding and heatwaves. Climate change is expected to increase these risks in the future. Bushfire risk is moderate and coastal risk is low.
Overall Risk Score
Confidence: Medium
Hazard Breakdown
Detailed Hazard Analysis
heat Risk
St Clair experiences a high risk of heatwaves and extreme heat events, particularly during summer. Climate change is expected to exacerbate this risk.
Primary Drivers
- ·Climate change
- ·Urban heat island effect
- ·High population density
Projections (RCP8.5)
2030
7.5
2050
8.0
flood Risk
St Clair faces a moderate risk of flooding, primarily from heavy rainfall events and nearby waterways. The risk is expected to increase due to climate change.
Primary Drivers
- ·Increased rainfall intensity
- ·Urban development
- ·Climate change
Projections (RCP8.5)
2030
6.5
2050
7.0
coastal Risk
St Clair is located inland and has a very low risk of coastal hazards.
Projections (RCP8.5)
2030
1.0
2050
1.0
bushfire Risk
St Clair has a moderate bushfire risk due to its proximity to bushland areas. Hot, dry conditions can elevate the risk during bushfire season.
Primary Drivers
- ·Dry vegetation
- ·High temperatures
- ·Wind
Projections (RCP8.5)
2030
4.2
2050
4.5
What This Means for Property Owners
Insurance Outlook
Premiums may increase due to flood and heatwave risks.
Price Impact
Potential for decreased property values in flood-prone areas.
Buyer Checklist
- 1.Check flood maps and historical flood data.
- 2.Assess property's vulnerability to heatwaves.
- 3.Review bushfire risk and mitigation measures.
- 4.Consider insurance costs and coverage.
Local Climate Evidence
Flood Evidence
- Nearest Waterway
- South Creek
- Elevation Range
- 40-60m
- Flood Zone
- Low to Moderate
Some areas near South Creek are susceptible to flash flooding during heavy rainfall.
View council flood mapBushfire Evidence
- Distance to Bushland
- Adjacent to bushland reserves
- Planning Overlay
- RFS Bush Fire Prone Land Map
- Bushfire Prone Area
- Yes
Properties bordering bushland are at higher risk.
Heat Evidence
- Avg January Max Temp
- 31.5°C
- Heat Stress Days/Year
- 5 days
Urban areas experience higher temperatures due to the urban heat island effect.
Coastal Evidence
- Distance to Coast
- 50 km
- Sea Level Rise Exposure
- Not applicable
- Erosion Risk
- Not applicable
Historical Climate Events
Major flooding in the Penrith region affected St Clair, causing property damage and disruptions.
SourceProlonged heatwave conditions led to increased hospital admissions and strain on infrastructure.
SourceBushfires in the region caused smoke haze and elevated fire danger in St Clair.
SourceLocalized flooding occurred due to heavy rainfall, impacting some residential areas.
SourceClimate Outlook to 2050
Projections based on CSIRO and BOM climate modelling. Scenario: RCP8.5
| Hazard | Today | 2030 | 2050 |
|---|---|---|---|
| flood | 6.0 | 6.5(+0.5) | 7.0(+1.0) |
| bushfire | 4.0 | 4.2(+0.2) | 4.4(+0.4) |
| heat | 7.0 | 7.8(+0.8) | 8.5(+1.5) |
| coastal | 1.0 | 1.0 | 1.0 |
By 2030, St Clair is projected to experience an increase in flood and heatwave risks under a high emissions scenario. Bushfire risk may also slightly increase.
CSIRO Climate ProjectionsAdaptation Recommendations
Improve Flood Defenses
Near-termUpgrade drainage infrastructure and implement flood-proofing measures for properties in flood-prone areas.
Est. cost: Medium
Learn moreEnhance Heatwave Preparedness
ImmediateDevelop a heatwave management plan and provide cooling centers for vulnerable residents.
Est. cost: Low
Learn moreStrengthen Bushfire Resilience
Near-termImplement bushfire mitigation measures, such as vegetation management and fire breaks, in areas bordering bushland.
Est. cost: Medium
Learn moreCommunity Awareness Programs
Long-termEducate residents about climate risks and adaptation strategies through community workshops and information campaigns.
Est. cost: Low
Learn moreAbout St Clair's Climate Risk Profile
St Clair, located in New South Wales, is subject to a range of climate-related risks. The primary concerns are flooding and heatwaves, with bushfire risk also being a consideration. The suburb's location and climate patterns contribute to these vulnerabilities.
Flooding is a significant concern due to heavy rainfall events and the presence of nearby waterways. Climate change is projected to increase the intensity and frequency of these events, potentially leading to more widespread flooding in the area. Residents and property owners should be aware of the potential risks and take appropriate precautions.
Heatwaves are another major concern, particularly during the summer months. St Clair experiences high temperatures, and climate change is expected to exacerbate this issue, leading to more frequent and intense heatwaves. This can pose a significant risk to vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions.
Bushfire risk is moderate, with the potential for fires to occur during hot, dry conditions. While not as significant as flooding or heatwaves, it is still important to be aware of the risk and take appropriate precautions, especially during the bushfire season.
Coastal risks are minimal due to St Clair's inland location.
Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · NSW RFS · Penrith City Council
Local Government Resources
Penrith City Council
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main climate change risks in St Clair?
The main climate change risks in St Clair are increased flooding, more frequent and intense heatwaves, and a moderate risk of bushfires.
How will climate change affect property values in St Clair?
Climate change may lead to decreased property values in flood-prone areas due to increased flood risk and insurance costs.
What is the council doing to address climate change in St Clair?
Penrith City Council has a climate strategy that includes measures to reduce emissions, improve resilience to climate impacts, and educate the community.
How can I prepare my home for a heatwave in St Clair?
You can prepare your home for a heatwave by installing insulation, using fans and air conditioning, and staying hydrated. It's also important to check on vulnerable neighbors and family members.
What should I do during a flood in St Clair?
During a flood, you should move to higher ground, avoid driving through floodwaters, and follow the instructions of emergency services. It's also important to have an emergency kit prepared.
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