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PROPERTY ANALYTICS

Climate Risk in Kingston, SA

Kingston, South Australia· Kingston District Council· 5275
Medium Risk
Updated Mar 2026

Kingston, SA, faces moderate climate risks, particularly from flooding and coastal hazards. Sea level rise and increasing temperatures are key drivers of these risks. Residents should prepare for more frequent extreme weather events.

Overall Risk Score

5.2/10
Medium

Confidence: Medium

Hazard Breakdown

Flood
6.0
Bushfire
4.0
Heat
5.0
Coastal
6.0

Detailed Hazard Analysis

heat Risk

5.0/10

Kingston experiences moderate heat risk, with increasing average temperatures and more frequent heatwaves projected. This poses a risk to vulnerable populations.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Global warming
  • ·Urban heat island effect (minimal in Kingston)

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

5.5

2050

6.0

Data source

flood Risk

6.0/10

Kingston faces a moderate risk of flooding, primarily from heavy rainfall events and coastal inundation. The flat terrain and proximity to the coast make it susceptible to both riverine and coastal flooding.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Sea level rise
  • ·Increased rainfall intensity
  • ·Coastal erosion

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

6.5

2050

7.2

Data source

coastal Risk

6.0/10

Kingston is exposed to coastal risks, including sea level rise and coastal erosion. This threatens infrastructure and coastal ecosystems.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Sea level rise
  • ·Storm surges
  • ·Coastal erosion

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

6.5

2050

7.5

Data source

bushfire Risk

4.0/10

The risk of bushfire in Kingston is relatively low compared to other regions in South Australia, but still present due to surrounding vegetation. Grassfires are the most common threat.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Dry vegetation
  • ·Windy conditions
  • ·Human ignition

Projections (RCP4.5)

2030

4.2

2050

4.5

Data source

What This Means for Property Owners

Insurance Outlook

Insurance premiums may increase in the future due to increased climate risks.

Price Impact

Properties in low-lying areas may experience a decrease in value due to flood risk and sea level rise.

Buyer Checklist

  • 1.Check flood maps and coastal hazard information.
  • 2.Assess the property's vulnerability to bushfire.
  • 3.Consider the potential impact of sea level rise.
  • 4.Inquire about insurance costs and coverage.

Local Climate Evidence

Flood Evidence

Nearest Waterway
Maria Creek
Elevation Range
0-10m
Flood Zone
Coastal Flood Zone

The Kingston District Council has identified areas at risk of flooding and is working to improve drainage infrastructure.

View council flood map

Bushfire Evidence

Distance to Bushland
1-5km
Planning Overlay
CFS Bushfire Prone Area Map
Bushfire Prone Area
Yes

Check the CFS website for current fire restrictions and warnings.

Heat Evidence

Avg January Max Temp
28.5°C
Heat Stress Days/Year
2 days

Plan ahead for heatwaves and ensure you have adequate cooling and hydration.

Coastal Evidence

Distance to Coast
0.5 km
Sea Level Rise Exposure
High
Erosion Risk
Moderate

Historical Climate Events

2011
floodModerate

Heavy rainfall caused widespread flooding in Kingston and surrounding areas.

Source
2013
bushfireMinor

A grassfire near Kingston threatened properties but was quickly contained by firefighters.

Source
2019
heatwaveModerate

Kingston experienced a prolonged heatwave with temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius.

Source
2023
coastalMinor

High tides and strong winds caused minor coastal erosion in Kingston.

Source

Climate Outlook to 2050

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

HazardToday20302050
flood6.06.5(+0.5)7.0(+1.0)
bushfire4.04.2(+0.2)4.5(+0.5)
heat5.05.3(+0.3)5.8(+0.8)
coastal6.06.5(+0.5)7.2(+1.2)

By 2030, Kingston is projected to experience an increase in flood risk due to more intense rainfall events and sea level rise. Heatwaves will become more frequent and intense, and coastal erosion will continue to worsen.

CSIRO Climate Projections

Adaptation Recommendations

Upgrade drainage infrastructure

Near-term

Improve drainage systems to reduce the risk of flooding from heavy rainfall.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Implement coastal protection measures

Near-term

Construct seawalls and other coastal defenses to protect against sea level rise and coastal erosion.

Est. cost: High

Learn more

Develop a heatwave management plan

Immediate

Create a plan to protect vulnerable populations during heatwaves, including cooling centers and public awareness campaigns.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

Raise community awareness

Long-term

Educate residents about the risks of climate change and how to prepare for extreme weather events.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

Strengthen building codes

Long-term

Update building codes to ensure new construction is resilient to climate change impacts, such as flooding and bushfires.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

About Kingston's Climate Risk Profile

Kingston, located on the Limestone Coast of South Australia, is increasingly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. The primary concerns are related to flooding, both from heavy rainfall and coastal inundation, and the effects of sea level rise on the coastline.

Rising sea levels pose a significant threat to Kingston's coastal infrastructure and ecosystems. Coastal erosion is already evident in some areas, and this is expected to worsen as sea levels continue to rise. Increased storm surges will also exacerbate the risk of coastal flooding.

Inland, Kingston is susceptible to flooding from heavy rainfall events. The flat terrain and limited drainage capacity can lead to widespread inundation, disrupting transportation and damaging property. Climate change is projected to increase the intensity of rainfall events, further increasing the risk of flooding.

While bushfire risk is relatively lower compared to other parts of South Australia, it is still a concern, particularly during dry periods. Grassfires can spread rapidly in the surrounding areas, posing a threat to homes and businesses.

Heatwaves are also becoming more frequent and intense, posing a risk to vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and those with chronic health conditions. It is important for residents to take precautions during heatwaves to stay safe and healthy.

Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · SA CFS · SA Department for Environment and Water · Kingston District Council

Local Government Resources

Kingston District Council

Climate StrategyFlood MapsEmergency Services

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main climate change risks in Kingston?

The main climate change risks in Kingston are flooding (from heavy rainfall and sea level rise), coastal erosion, and heatwaves.

How is the Kingston District Council addressing climate change?

The Kingston District Council is developing strategies to mitigate and adapt to the impacts of climate change, including improving drainage infrastructure and implementing coastal protection measures.

What can I do to prepare for flooding in Kingston?

You can prepare for flooding by checking flood maps, elevating your home if possible, and having an emergency plan in place.

How can I stay safe during a heatwave in Kingston?

During a heatwave, stay indoors in air-conditioned environments, drink plenty of water, and avoid strenuous activity.

Where can I find more information about climate change in Kingston?

You can find more information about climate change in Kingston on the Kingston District Council website, the South Australian Department for Environment and Water website, and the CSIRO website.

Is my property at risk from sea level rise?

Properties close to the coast are at higher risk from sea level rise. Check coastal hazard maps and consult with a coastal engineer to assess your property's vulnerability.

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