Climate Risk in Upper Burringbar, NSW
Upper Burringbar faces moderate risks from flooding, bushfires, and heatwaves, which are projected to increase with climate change. While not directly coastal, the suburb could be indirectly affected by coastal hazards. Residents should prepare for more extreme weather events.
Overall Risk Score
Confidence: Medium
Hazard Breakdown
Climate Hazard Breakdown for Upper Burringbar
Flood
Upper Burringbar faces a moderate risk of flooding due to its proximity to waterways and low-lying areas. Climate change is expected to increase rainfall intensity, exacerbating flood risk.
Key drivers:
- ·Increased rainfall intensity
- ·Sea level rise
Bushfire
The area around Upper Burringbar has a moderate bushfire risk due to surrounding vegetation. Hotter, drier conditions are projected to increase the frequency and intensity of bushfires.
Key drivers:
- ·Increased temperatures
- ·Drier conditions
Heat
Upper Burringbar is likely to experience more frequent and intense heatwaves. This poses a risk to vulnerable populations, including the elderly and those with chronic health conditions.
Key drivers:
- ·Rising average temperatures
- ·Increased frequency of heatwaves
Coastal
Upper Burringbar is not directly on the coast, so the coastal risk is relatively low. However, sea level rise and storm surges could indirectly impact the area.
Key drivers:
- ·Sea level rise
- ·Increased storm intensity
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 Upper Burringbar
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
Upper Burringbar is likely to experience more frequent and intense heatwaves. This poses a risk to vulnerable populations, including the elderly and those with chronic health conditions.
Primary Drivers
- ·Rising average temperatures
- ·Increased frequency of heatwaves
- ·Urban heat island effect
Projections (RCP8.5)
2030
5.5
2050
6.2
flood Risk
Upper Burringbar faces a moderate risk of flooding due to its proximity to waterways and low-lying areas. Climate change is expected to increase rainfall intensity, exacerbating flood risk.
Primary Drivers
- ·Increased rainfall intensity
- ·Sea level rise
- ·Inadequate drainage infrastructure
Projections (RCP8.5)
2030
7.0
2050
7.8
coastal Risk
Upper Burringbar is not directly on the coast, so the coastal risk is relatively low. However, sea level rise and storm surges could indirectly impact the area.
Primary Drivers
- ·Sea level rise
- ·Increased storm intensity
Projections (RCP8.5)
2030
3.3
2050
3.7
bushfire Risk
The area around Upper Burringbar has a moderate bushfire risk due to surrounding vegetation. Hotter, drier conditions are projected to increase the frequency and intensity of bushfires.
Primary Drivers
- ·Increased temperatures
- ·Drier conditions
- ·Fuel load
Projections (RCP8.5)
2030
5.2
2050
5.8
What This Means for Property Owners
Insurance Outlook
Insurance premiums are likely to increase due to the rising risk of flooding and bushfires.
Price Impact
Properties in areas with higher flood or bushfire risk may experience a decrease in value.
Buyer Checklist
- 1.Check flood maps and bushfire-prone area designations.
- 2.Assess the property's vulnerability to heatwaves.
- 3.Inquire about insurance costs and coverage.
- 4.Review council's climate adaptation plans.
Local Climate Evidence
Flood Evidence
- Nearest Waterway
- Burringbar Creek
- Elevation Range
- 10-30 meters
- Flood Zone
- Low to Moderate
Historical flood data indicates that Upper Burringbar has experienced several moderate flood events in the past. Recent infrastructure upgrades aim to improve drainage capacity.
View council flood mapBushfire Evidence
- Distance to Bushland
- Adjacent
- Planning Overlay
- https://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/map
- Bushfire Prone Area
- Yes
The area is designated as a bushfire-prone area, requiring properties to adhere to specific building codes and vegetation management practices.
Heat Evidence
- Avg January Max Temp
- 30.5°C
- Heat Stress Days/Year
- 3 days
The average number of days exceeding 35°C is projected to increase significantly by 2050.
Coastal Evidence
- Distance to Coast
- 15 km
- Sea Level Rise Exposure
- Low
- Erosion Risk
- Low
Historical Climate Events
Major flooding occurred in the Tweed River catchment, impacting Upper Burringbar with road closures and property damage.
SourceBushfires in the region caused smoky conditions and required residents to be prepared for evacuation.
SourceA prolonged heatwave in January resulted in increased hospital admissions and strain on infrastructure.
SourceRecord-breaking rainfall led to widespread flooding across the Northern Rivers region, including Upper Burringbar, causing significant damage and displacement.
SourceClimate Outlook to 2050
Projections based on CSIRO and BOM climate modelling. Scenario: RCP8.5
| Hazard | Today | 2030 | 2050 |
|---|---|---|---|
| flood | 65 | 7.0(+0.5) | 7.5(+1.0) |
| bushfire | 48 | 5.2(+0.4) | 5.6(+0.8) |
| heat | 50 | 5.6(+0.6) | 6.1(+1.1) |
| coastal | 30 | 3.2(+0.2) | 3.4(+0.4) |
By 2030, Upper Burringbar is projected to experience a noticeable increase in overall climate risk, with more frequent and intense floods, bushfires, and heatwaves. Coastal risks remain relatively low but are still expected to increase slightly.
CSIRO Climate ProjectionsAdaptation Recommendations
Improve Drainage Infrastructure
Near-termUpgrade and expand drainage systems to handle increased rainfall intensity and reduce flood risk.
Est. cost: High
Learn moreBushfire Mitigation Measures
ImmediateImplement vegetation management programs, create firebreaks, and educate residents on bushfire preparedness.
Est. cost: Medium
Learn moreHeatwave Preparedness Plan
Near-termDevelop a community heatwave plan that includes cooling centers, public awareness campaigns, and support for vulnerable populations.
Est. cost: Low
Learn moreStrengthen Building Codes
Long-termUpdate building codes to require more resilient construction materials and designs that can withstand extreme weather events.
Est. cost: High
Learn moreCommunity Education Programs
Near-termConduct workshops and seminars to educate residents about climate change risks and adaptation strategies.
Est. cost: Low
Learn moreAbout Upper Burringbar's Climate Risk Profile
Upper Burringbar, located in the Tweed Shire of New South Wales, is a rural community that faces a range of climate-related challenges. The primary concerns are increasing flood risk due to more intense rainfall, heightened bushfire danger from hotter and drier conditions, and more frequent and severe heatwaves.
The suburb's proximity to waterways makes it vulnerable to flooding, and climate change is expected to exacerbate this risk. Increased rainfall intensity can overwhelm drainage systems and cause significant damage to property and infrastructure. Residents should be aware of flood warnings and have evacuation plans in place.
The surrounding bushland also poses a bushfire threat, particularly during the dry season. Higher temperatures and reduced rainfall are creating conditions that are more conducive to bushfires. Property owners should maintain their properties to reduce fuel loads and be prepared to evacuate if necessary.
Heatwaves are becoming more common and intense, posing a health risk to vulnerable populations. It is important to stay hydrated, seek shelter in cool places, and check on elderly or ill neighbors during periods of extreme heat.
While Upper Burringbar is not directly on the coast, sea level rise and storm surges could have indirect impacts, such as disrupting transportation and supply chains. The community needs to work together to adapt to these challenges and build resilience to climate change.
Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · NSW RFS · Tweed Shire Council
Local Government Resources
Tweed Shire Council
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main climate change risks for Upper Burringbar?
The main risks are increased flooding, more frequent and intense bushfires, and more severe heatwaves. Sea level rise could also have indirect impacts.
How is the Tweed Shire Council addressing climate change?
The council has developed a climate strategy that includes measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to the impacts of climate change. They are also working to improve drainage infrastructure and manage bushfire risk.
What can I do to prepare for flooding in Upper Burringbar?
Stay informed about flood warnings, develop an evacuation plan, and ensure your property is adequately insured. Consider installing flood-proofing measures.
How can I protect my home from bushfires?
Maintain your property by clearing vegetation and removing flammable materials. Install fire-resistant building materials and have a bushfire survival plan.
What should I do during a heatwave?
Stay hydrated, seek shelter in cool places, and check on elderly or ill neighbors. Avoid strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day.
Where can I find more information about climate change risks in Upper Burringbar?
You can find information on the Tweed Shire Council website, the NSW Office of Environment and Heritage website, and the Bureau of Meteorology website.
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