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PROPERTY ANALYTICS

Climate Risk in Wingham, New South Wales

Wingham, New South Wales· MidCoast Council· 2429
Medium Risk
Updated Mar 2026

Wingham is a town in the MidCoast Council region of New South Wales, facing moderate climate risks. The primary concern is flooding from the Manning River, with increasing heatwaves also posing a threat. Bushfire risk is moderate, while coastal risks are relatively low.

Overall Risk Score

5.5/10
Medium

Confidence: Medium

Hazard Breakdown

Flood
7.0
Bushfire
4.0
Heat
6.0
Coastal
2.0

Detailed Hazard Analysis

heat Risk

6.0/10

Wingham experiences hot summers, with the risk of heatwaves increasing. High temperatures can impact vulnerable populations and infrastructure.

Primary Drivers

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

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

6.5

2050

7.0

Data source

flood Risk

7.0/10

Wingham faces a notable risk of flooding due to its proximity to the Manning River. Riverine flooding can inundate low-lying areas, impacting residential and commercial properties.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Increased rainfall intensity
  • ·Sea level rise affecting river flow
  • ·Urban development increasing runoff

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

7.5

2050

8.0

Data source

coastal Risk

2.0/10

Coastal risks are relatively low in Wingham due to its inland location. However, sea level rise can affect riverine flooding.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Sea level rise
  • ·Increased storm surge

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

2.5

2050

3.0

Data source

bushfire Risk

4.0/10

Bushfire risk in Wingham is moderate, with areas of bushland surrounding the town. Grassfires can also pose a threat during dry periods.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Dry vegetation
  • ·Increased frequency of heatwaves
  • ·Wind patterns

Projections (RCP4.5)

2030

4.5

2050

5.0

Data source

What This Means for Property Owners

Insurance Outlook

Insurance premiums may increase in areas prone to flooding and bushfires.

Price Impact

Properties in high-risk areas 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.Consider the potential impact of climate change on insurance premiums.
  • 4.Review council's climate adaptation plans.

Local Climate Evidence

Flood Evidence

Nearest Waterway
Manning River
Elevation Range
5-15 meters
Flood Zone
Areas adjacent to the Manning River are designated as flood zones.

Historical flood events have impacted Wingham, highlighting the need for effective flood management strategies.

View council flood map

Bushfire Evidence

Distance to Bushland
Within 1km of town boundaries
Planning Overlay
https://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/plan-and-prepare/bush-fire-prone-land
Bushfire Prone Area
Yes

Residents should maintain firebreaks and be aware of fire danger ratings during the bushfire season.

Heat Evidence

Avg January Max Temp
32.5°C
Heat Stress Days/Year
5 days

Vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and those with chronic health conditions, are particularly at risk during heatwaves.

Coastal Evidence

Distance to Coast
30 km
Sea Level Rise Exposure
Indirectly affected by sea level rise through increased riverine flooding.
Erosion Risk
Low

Historical Climate Events

2013
floodModerate

The Manning River experienced moderate flooding, inundating low-lying areas of Wingham.

Source
2019
bushfireModerate

Bushfires impacted areas surrounding Wingham, with smoke affecting air quality.

Source
2017
stormMinor

A severe storm caused localized flooding and power outages in Wingham.

Source
2020
floodModerate

Heavy rainfall caused the Manning River to flood, affecting some properties in Wingham.

Source

Climate Outlook to 2050

Projections based on CSIRO and BOM climate modelling. Scenario: RCP8.5

HazardToday20302050
flood7.07.5(+0.5)8.0(+1.0)
bushfire4.04.2(+0.2)4.5(+0.5)
heat6.06.8(+0.8)7.5(+1.5)
coastal2.02.1(+0.1)2.2(+0.2)

By 2030, Wingham is projected to experience an increase in the frequency and intensity of heatwaves and flooding events. Bushfire risk is also expected to increase slightly.

CSIRO Climate Projections

Adaptation Recommendations

Improve flood defenses

Near-term

Invest in infrastructure to protect against flooding from the Manning River, such as levees and improved drainage systems.

Est. cost: High

Learn more

Develop a heatwave management plan

Immediate

Implement strategies to protect vulnerable populations during heatwaves, such as cooling centers and public awareness campaigns.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Strengthen bushfire preparedness

Near-term

Implement measures to reduce bushfire risk, such as hazard reduction burns and community education programs.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Promote water conservation

Long-term

Encourage residents and businesses to conserve water to reduce the impact of droughts.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

About Wingham's Climate Risk Profile

Wingham, located in the MidCoast Council area of New South Wales, is exposed to a range of climate-related risks. The town's proximity to the Manning River makes it particularly vulnerable to flooding, which can inundate low-lying areas and disrupt daily life. Climate change is expected to exacerbate these risks, with increased rainfall intensity and sea level rise potentially leading to more frequent and severe flooding events.

Bushfire risk is also a concern in Wingham, with areas of bushland surrounding the town. During dry periods, grassfires can pose a threat to properties and infrastructure. Rising temperatures and prolonged droughts are expected to increase the frequency and intensity of bushfires in the region.

Heatwaves are becoming more common in Wingham, with high temperatures impacting vulnerable populations and infrastructure. The urban heat island effect can further exacerbate these risks, particularly in densely populated areas. Climate change is expected to lead to even hotter summers and more frequent heatwaves.

While coastal risks are relatively low in Wingham due to its inland location, sea level rise can still affect riverine flooding. Changes in sea level can alter river flow and increase the risk of inundation during heavy rainfall events. It is important for residents and businesses to be aware of these risks and take steps to prepare for potential impacts.

Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · NSW SES · NSW RFS · MidCoast Council

Local Government Resources

MidCoast Council

Climate StrategyFlood MapsEmergency Services

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main climate risks facing Wingham?

The main climate risks facing Wingham are flooding from the Manning River, heatwaves, and bushfires. Sea level rise can also exacerbate flooding events.

How is the MidCoast Council addressing climate change?

The MidCoast Council has developed a climate strategy that outlines actions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to the impacts of climate change.

What can I do to prepare for flooding in Wingham?

You can prepare for flooding by developing a flood plan, purchasing flood insurance, and staying informed about flood warnings.

How can I protect myself during a heatwave?

You can protect yourself during a heatwave by staying hydrated, staying cool, and avoiding strenuous activity.

What should I do if a bushfire threatens my property?

If a bushfire threatens your property, you should follow your bushfire survival plan and evacuate if necessary.

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