Climate Risk in Kingston SE, SA

Kingston SE, South Australia· UNKNOWN
Medium Risk
Updated Mar 2026

Kingston SE faces a range of climate-related risks, including flooding, bushfire, heatwaves, and coastal hazards. Sea level rise and increased storm intensity pose significant threats to the town's coastal areas. Proactive adaptation measures are crucial to mitigate these risks and protect the community.

Overall Risk Score

5.5/10
Medium

Confidence: Medium

Hazard Breakdown

Flood
6.0
Bushfire
4.0
Heat
5.0
Coastal
7.0

Detailed Hazard Analysis

heat Risk

5.0/10

Kingston SE experiences moderate heat risk, with increasing average temperatures and more frequent heatwaves projected. This can impact vulnerable populations and infrastructure.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Global warming
  • ·Urban heat island effect (minimal)
  • ·Reduced vegetation cover

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

5.5

2050

6.5

Data source

flood Risk

6.0/10

Kingston SE faces a moderate risk of flooding, primarily from heavy rainfall and coastal inundation. The town's low-lying areas are particularly vulnerable.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Sea level rise
  • ·Increased rainfall intensity
  • ·Poor drainage infrastructure

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

6.5

2050

7.5

Data source

coastal Risk

7.0/10

Kingston SE is highly vulnerable to coastal hazards, including sea level rise, coastal erosion, and storm surges. The town's proximity to the coast makes it susceptible to these impacts.

Primary Drivers

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

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

7.5

2050

8.5

Data source

bushfire Risk

4.0/10

The risk of bushfire in Kingston SE is moderate, with surrounding scrubland posing a potential threat during dry periods. Coastal areas are generally less prone, but strong winds can increase the risk.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Dry vegetation
  • ·Strong winds
  • ·Arson

Projections (RCP4.5)

2030

4.2

2050

4.5

Data source

What This Means for Property Owners

Insurance Outlook

Increasing premiums due to climate risks.

Price Impact

Potential for decreased property values in vulnerable areas.

Buyer Checklist

  • 1.Check flood maps and coastal erosion risk assessments.
  • 2.Assess 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

Low-lying areas near Maria Creek are particularly vulnerable to flooding.

View council flood map

Bushfire Evidence

Distance to Bushland
Adjacent to scrubland
Planning Overlay
CFS Bushfire Prone Area Map
Bushfire Prone Area
Yes

The town is surrounded by scrubland, increasing the risk of bushfire.

Heat Evidence

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

Average January maximum temperature is increasing.

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 SE, inundating homes and businesses.

Source
2013
bushfireMinor

A bushfire near Kingston SE threatened the town, but was contained by firefighters.

Source
2019
heatwaveModerate

Kingston SE experienced a prolonged heatwave, with temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius for several days.

Source
2022
coastalMinor

Storm surge caused minor coastal erosion and inundation in Kingston SE.

Source

Climate Outlook to 2050

Projections based on CSIRO and BOM climate modelling. Scenario: RCP4.5

HazardToday20302050
flood6.06.3(+0.3)6.8(+0.8)
bushfire4.04.1(+0.1)4.3(+0.3)
heat5.05.2(+0.2)5.5(+0.5)
coastal7.07.4(+0.4)8.2(+1.2)

Under a moderate emissions scenario, Kingston SE is projected to experience a slight increase in overall climate risk by 2030, with coastal hazards and flooding posing the greatest threats.

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

Immediate

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

Est. cost: High

Learn more

Develop a bushfire management plan

Near-term

Create a plan to reduce the risk of bushfire, including vegetation management and community education.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

Promote energy efficiency and renewable energy

Long-term

Reduce greenhouse gas emissions by promoting energy efficiency and renewable energy sources.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Relocate vulnerable infrastructure

Long-term

Move critical infrastructure away from high-risk coastal zones.

Est. cost: Very High

Learn more

About Kingston SE's Climate Risk Profile

Kingston SE, a coastal town in South Australia, is increasingly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. The town's low-lying coastal location makes it particularly susceptible to sea level rise, coastal erosion, and storm surges. These hazards can damage infrastructure, disrupt livelihoods, and threaten the safety of residents.

Flooding is another significant concern for Kingston SE. Heavy rainfall events can overwhelm drainage systems, leading to widespread inundation. Climate change is expected to increase the frequency and intensity of these events, exacerbating the risk of flooding in the town.

Bushfire risk is moderate, with surrounding scrubland posing a potential threat during dry periods. While coastal areas are generally less prone, strong winds can increase the risk of fire spreading to populated areas. Heatwaves are also becoming more frequent and intense, posing a health risk to vulnerable populations.

Addressing these climate risks requires a comprehensive and coordinated approach. This includes investing in infrastructure upgrades, implementing land-use planning policies that account for climate change, and raising community awareness about the risks and adaptation measures.

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

Local Government Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main climate change risks facing Kingston SE?

Kingston SE faces risks from sea level rise, coastal erosion, flooding, bushfires, and heatwaves. Sea level rise and increased storm intensity pose the most significant threats.

How will sea level rise affect Kingston SE?

Sea level rise will lead to increased coastal erosion, inundation of low-lying areas, and damage to infrastructure. It could also impact property values and tourism.

What is the council doing to address climate change?

The District Council of Kingston is developing a climate adaptation strategy to address the risks facing the town. This includes investing in infrastructure upgrades, implementing land-use planning policies, and raising community awareness.

How can I protect my property from flooding?

You can protect your property from flooding by installing flood barriers, improving drainage, and raising the elevation of your home. Check with your local council for advice and assistance.

What should I do during a heatwave?

During a heatwave, stay indoors in air-conditioned buildings, drink plenty of water, and avoid strenuous activity. Check on vulnerable neighbors and family members.

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

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

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