Climate Risk in Clare, SA
Clare faces moderate risks from flooding, bushfires, and heatwaves, which are projected to increase with climate change. The town's inland location mitigates coastal risks, but proactive adaptation measures are essential to protect the community and infrastructure from escalating climate hazards.
Overall Risk Score
Confidence: Medium
Hazard Breakdown
Detailed Hazard Analysis
heat Risk
Clare is experiencing an increasing number of heatwaves and hotter days, posing a significant risk to vulnerable populations. The urban heat island effect can further amplify temperatures in built-up areas.
Primary Drivers
- ·Climate change
- ·Urbanisation
- ·Reduced vegetation cover
Projections (RCP8.5)
2030
7.5
2050
8.0
flood Risk
Clare faces a moderate risk of flooding due to its proximity to the Hutt River and other waterways. Heavy rainfall events can lead to riverine flooding, impacting low-lying areas and infrastructure.
Primary Drivers
- ·Increased rainfall intensity
- ·Urban development
- ·Climate change
Projections (RCP8.5)
2030
7.0
2050
7.5
coastal Risk
Clare is located inland and does not face a direct risk from coastal hazards such as sea-level rise or coastal erosion.
Projections (RCP8.5)
2030
1.0
2050
1.0
bushfire Risk
The risk of bushfires in Clare is moderate, with surrounding grasslands and bushland posing a threat during hot and dry conditions. Increased temperatures and prolonged droughts can exacerbate the risk.
Primary Drivers
- ·Increased temperatures
- ·Drought conditions
- ·Fuel load
Projections (RCP8.5)
2030
4.7
2050
5.2
What This Means for Property Owners
Insurance Outlook
Insurance premiums may increase in the future due to the increasing risk of flooding, bushfires, and heatwaves.
Price Impact
Properties in areas prone to flooding or bushfires may experience a decrease in value.
Buyer Checklist
- 1.Check the flood risk of the property.
- 2.Assess the bushfire risk of the property.
- 3.Ensure the property is well-insulated to reduce heat stress.
- 4.Consider the availability of emergency services in the area.
Local Climate Evidence
Flood Evidence
- Nearest Waterway
- Hutt River
- Elevation Range
- 250-300m
- Flood Zone
- Areas near the Hutt River are prone to flooding.
Historical flood data indicates that the Hutt River has overflowed its banks on several occasions, causing damage to properties and infrastructure in Clare.
View council flood mapBushfire Evidence
- Distance to Bushland
- Surrounded by grasslands and bushland.
- Planning Overlay
- Check the CFS website for current fire restrictions and warnings.
- Bushfire Prone Area
- Yes
The area surrounding Clare has a history of bushfires, with several major fires occurring in recent decades.
Heat Evidence
- Avg January Max Temp
- 32°C
- Heat Stress Days/Year
- 5 days
Clare experiences several heatwave events each year, with temperatures often exceeding 40 degrees Celsius.
Coastal Evidence
- Distance to Coast
- 130 km
- Sea Level Rise Exposure
- Not applicable.
- Erosion Risk
- Not applicable.
Historical Climate Events
Heavy rainfall caused the Hutt River to flood, inundating low-lying areas of Clare and disrupting transportation.
SourceA prolonged heatwave with temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius caused heat stress and health concerns in Clare.
SourceA bushfire near Clare threatened properties and required the deployment of fire crews to contain the blaze.
SourceSignificant rainfall led to flash flooding in parts of Clare, impacting local businesses and residences.
SourceClimate Outlook to 2050
Projections based on CSIRO and BOM climate modelling. Scenario: RCP8.5
| Hazard | Today | 2030 | 2050 |
|---|---|---|---|
| flood | 6.5 | 6.8(+0.3) | 7.1(+0.6) |
| bushfire | 4.2 | 4.4(+0.2) | 4.7(+0.5) |
| heat | 7.0 | 7.8(+0.8) | 8.5(+1.5) |
| coastal | 1.0 | 1.0 | 1.0 |
By 2030, Clare is projected to experience a moderate increase in overall climate risk, with the most significant impacts from heatwaves. Flooding and bushfire risks are also expected to increase.
CSIRO Climate ProjectionsAdaptation Recommendations
Improve Flood Defenses
Near-termConstruct levees and drainage systems to protect low-lying areas from flooding.
Est. cost: Medium
Learn moreManage Vegetation to Reduce Bushfire Fuel Loads
Near-termImplement controlled burns and vegetation clearing to reduce the risk of bushfires.
Est. cost: Low
Learn moreImplement Heatwave Early Warning Systems
ImmediateDevelop and implement a heatwave early warning system to alert residents of impending heatwaves and provide guidance on how to stay safe.
Est. cost: Low
Learn morePromote Water Conservation
Long-termEncourage residents to conserve water through education and incentives to reduce water stress during droughts.
Est. cost: Low
Learn moreUpgrade Building Standards
Long-termImplement stricter building codes to ensure that new buildings are more resilient to climate-related hazards such as flooding, bushfires, and heatwaves.
Est. cost: Medium
Learn moreAbout Clare's Climate Risk Profile
Clare, located in the Clare Valley of South Australia, is increasingly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. The primary risks include flooding from the Hutt River and other waterways, bushfires from surrounding grasslands and bushland, and heatwaves during the summer months.
Flooding events can inundate low-lying areas, disrupting transportation, damaging property, and posing risks to public health. Bushfires can threaten homes and businesses, particularly during periods of prolonged drought and high temperatures. Heatwaves can lead to heat stress and heatstroke, especially among vulnerable populations such as the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions.
Climate projections indicate that these risks are likely to intensify in the coming decades. Increased rainfall intensity is expected to exacerbate flooding, while rising temperatures and drier conditions will increase the frequency and severity of bushfires. Heatwaves are projected to become more frequent, longer, and hotter, placing additional strain on the community.
To mitigate these risks, it is essential to implement adaptation measures such as improving flood defenses, managing vegetation to reduce bushfire fuel loads, and implementing heatwave early warning systems. Community awareness and preparedness are also crucial to ensure that residents are able to respond effectively to climate-related hazards.
Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · SA CFS · SA SES · Department for Environment and Water
Local Government Resources
Clare & Gilbert Valleys Council
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main climate change risks in Clare?
Clare faces increasing risks from flooding, bushfires, and heatwaves due to climate change. These hazards can impact property, infrastructure, and public health.
How is the local council addressing climate change?
The Clare & Gilbert Valleys Council is developing and implementing strategies to mitigate and adapt to the impacts of climate change, including improving flood defenses and managing vegetation to reduce bushfire risks.
What can I do to prepare for heatwaves in Clare?
During heatwaves, it is important to stay hydrated, stay cool, and avoid strenuous activities. Check on vulnerable neighbors and friends, and seek medical attention if you experience symptoms of heat stress.
How can I protect my property from flooding in Clare?
Consider installing flood barriers, elevating appliances, and ensuring that your property is properly drained. Check your insurance policy to ensure that you are covered for flood damage.
What should I do during a bushfire in Clare?
If a bushfire threatens your property, follow the advice of emergency services. Evacuate if necessary, and take precautions to protect yourself from smoke inhalation.
Where can I find more information about climate change in Clare?
You can find more information about climate change in Clare on the Clare & Gilbert Valleys Council website, the South Australian Department for Environment and Water website, and the Bureau of Meteorology website.
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