Climate Risk in Elizabeth, SA

Elizabeth, South Australia· City of Playford· 5112
Medium Risk
Updated Mar 2026

Elizabeth faces increasing risks from heatwaves and flooding due to climate change. While the coastal risk is negligible, bushfire risk is present. Residents should prepare for more frequent and intense heat events and potential flooding.

Overall Risk Score

5.2/10
Medium

Confidence: Medium

Hazard Breakdown

Flood
4.5
Bushfire
3.0
Heat
7.0
Coastal
1.0

Detailed Hazard Analysis

heat Risk

7.0/10

Elizabeth is subject to high heat risk, with increasing average temperatures and more frequent heatwave events projected. This poses a significant threat to vulnerable populations.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Rising global temperatures
  • ·Urban heat island effect
  • ·Reduced vegetation cover

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

7.5

2050

8.0

Data source

flood Risk

4.5/10

Elizabeth faces a moderate risk of flooding, primarily from heavy rainfall events and stormwater runoff. The risk is influenced by local topography and drainage infrastructure.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Increased rainfall intensity
  • ·Urban development
  • ·Aging drainage infrastructure

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

4.8

2050

5.2

Data source

coastal Risk

1.0/10

Elizabeth is located inland and does not face a direct risk from coastal hazards such as sea level rise or coastal erosion.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Distance from coast

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

1.0

2050

1.0

Data source

bushfire Risk

3.0/10

The bushfire risk in Elizabeth is relatively low compared to other regions in South Australia, but still present due to nearby grasslands and reserves. Increased temperatures and drier conditions can exacerbate this risk.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Increased temperatures
  • ·Drier conditions
  • ·Vegetation dryness

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

3.3

2050

3.6

Data source

What This Means for Property Owners

Insurance Outlook

Insurance premiums may increase due to increased flood and heatwave risk.

Price Impact

Properties in flood-prone areas may experience a decrease in value.

Buyer Checklist

  • 1.Check flood maps and insurance costs.
  • 2.Assess property's vulnerability to heatwaves.
  • 3.Consider energy efficiency upgrades.
  • 4.Review bushfire risk and prepare accordingly.

Local Climate Evidence

Flood Evidence

Nearest Waterway
Dry Creek
Elevation Range
20-40m
Flood Zone
Areas adjacent to Dry Creek are susceptible to flooding.

Historical flood events have impacted properties near Dry Creek. Council maintains flood maps and provides guidance on flood preparedness.

View council flood map

Bushfire Evidence

Distance to Bushland
Within 5km of several reserves.
Planning Overlay
CFS Bushfire Prone Area Map
Bushfire Prone Area
Yes

Check CFS website for current fire restrictions and prepare a bushfire survival plan.

Heat Evidence

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

Plan ahead for heatwaves. Stay hydrated, seek air-conditioned environments, and check on vulnerable neighbours.

Coastal Evidence

Distance to Coast
25 km
Sea Level Rise Exposure
Not applicable
Erosion Risk
Not applicable

Historical Climate Events

2009
heatwaveModerate

A prolonged heatwave affected South Australia, including Elizabeth, with temperatures exceeding 40°C for several days.

Source
2016
stormModerate

A severe storm caused flash flooding and property damage in parts of Elizabeth.

Source
2019
heatwaveModerate

Another significant heatwave impacted Elizabeth, leading to increased demand for emergency services.

Source
2022
floodMinor

Heavy rainfall caused localized flooding in low-lying areas of Elizabeth.

Source

Climate Outlook to 2050

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

HazardToday20302050
flood4.54.8(+0.3)5.2(+0.7)
bushfire3.03.2(+0.2)3.6(+0.6)
heat7.08.0(+1.0)8.8(+1.8)
coastal1.01.01.0

By 2030, Elizabeth is projected to experience a notable increase in heatwave frequency and intensity, along with a slight increase in flood risk. Bushfire risk will also increase slightly. Coastal risk remains negligible.

CSIRO Climate Projections

Adaptation Recommendations

Develop a Heat Action Plan

Immediate

Create a community-based heat action plan to protect vulnerable residents during heatwaves. This should include cooling centers, outreach programs, and public awareness campaigns.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

Upgrade Drainage Infrastructure

Near-term

Invest in upgrading drainage infrastructure to improve stormwater management and reduce flood risk. This should include increasing drainage capacity and implementing nature-based solutions.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Promote Water Conservation

Long-term

Encourage water conservation practices to reduce water demand and mitigate the impacts of drought. This can include rainwater harvesting, greywater recycling, and water-efficient landscaping.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

Bushfire Preparedness

Near-term

Prepare your home and family for bushfires. Clear vegetation around your home, have a bushfire survival plan, and know your evacuation routes.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

About Elizabeth's Climate Risk Profile

Elizabeth, located in South Australia, is projected to experience notable shifts in its climate risk profile over the coming decades. The primary concerns revolve around increasing heatwave frequency and intensity, as well as a heightened risk of flooding due to more intense rainfall events.

The risk of heatwaves is expected to increase significantly, posing challenges for vulnerable populations and infrastructure. Residents should prepare for longer and more frequent periods of extreme heat, particularly during the summer months. Implementing heat mitigation strategies, such as increasing green spaces and improving building insulation, will be crucial.

Flooding risk is also projected to rise, driven by more intense rainfall events. This could lead to increased stormwater runoff and potential damage to property and infrastructure. Upgrading drainage systems and implementing flood management strategies will be essential to mitigate these risks.

While the risk of coastal hazards is minimal due to Elizabeth's inland location, the risk of bushfires should not be ignored. Implementing appropriate bushfire prevention measures and maintaining vegetation around properties can help reduce the risk.

Overall, Elizabeth needs to proactively adapt to the changing climate to protect its community and infrastructure. This requires a combination of mitigation and adaptation strategies, as well as community engagement and awareness.

Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · CFS · SA Environment and Water

Local Government Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main climate change risks in Elizabeth?

The main climate change risks in Elizabeth are increasing heatwaves and flooding. Bushfire risk is also present, but coastal risks are minimal.

How can I prepare for heatwaves in Elizabeth?

Stay hydrated, seek air-conditioned environments, check on vulnerable neighbours, and follow advice from SA Health.

What is the City of Playford doing to address climate change?

The City of Playford is implementing various initiatives to reduce emissions and adapt to the impacts of climate change, including promoting energy efficiency, upgrading drainage infrastructure, and developing a climate action plan.

Where can I find information about flood risks in Elizabeth?

You can find information about flood risks in Elizabeth on the City of Playford website and the SA Environment and Water website.

How can I reduce my carbon footprint in Elizabeth?

You can reduce your carbon footprint by using public transport, cycling or walking, reducing energy consumption, and supporting local businesses.

Is Elizabeth considered a bushfire prone area?

Yes, parts of Elizabeth are considered bushfire prone areas. Check the CFS website for more information and prepare a bushfire survival plan.

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