Climate Risk in Port Broughton, South Australia

Port Broughton, South Australia· Barunga West· 5522
Medium Risk
Updated Mar 2026

Port Broughton faces a moderate climate risk, primarily from flooding, heatwaves, and coastal hazards. Sea level rise and increased rainfall intensity are key drivers of these risks. Residents should prepare for more frequent and intense extreme weather events.

Overall Risk Score

5.8/10
Medium

Confidence: Medium

Hazard Breakdown

Flood
6.5
Bushfire
3.0
Heat
7.0
Coastal
6.7

Detailed Hazard Analysis

heat Risk

7.0/10

Port Broughton is experiencing an increase in the frequency and intensity of heatwaves. This poses a significant risk to vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and those with chronic health conditions.

Primary Drivers

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

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

7.5

2050

8.0

Data source

flood Risk

6.5/10

Port Broughton faces a moderate risk of flooding, primarily from heavy rainfall events and storm surges. The risk is expected to increase with climate change due to more intense rainfall.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Increased rainfall intensity
  • ·Sea level rise
  • ·Storm surges

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

7.0

2050

7.5

Data source

coastal Risk

6.7/10

Port Broughton is vulnerable to coastal erosion and inundation due to sea level rise and storm surges. The low-lying coastal areas are particularly at risk.

Primary Drivers

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

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

7.2

2050

7.8

Data source

bushfire Risk

3.0/10

The bushfire risk in Port Broughton is relatively low compared to other regions in South Australia. However, dry vegetation and strong winds can still pose a threat during the fire season.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Dry vegetation
  • ·Strong winds
  • ·Increased temperatures

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

3.2

2050

3.5

Data source

What This Means for Property Owners

Insurance Outlook

Insurance premiums are likely to increase due to climate risks

Price Impact

Potential for decreased property values in high-risk areas

Buyer Checklist

  • 1.Check flood maps and coastal erosion risk assessments
  • 2.Assess property's vulnerability to heatwaves
  • 3.Review insurance coverage for climate-related events
  • 4.Consider long-term climate projections when making property decisions

Local Climate Evidence

Flood Evidence

Nearest Waterway
Broughton River
Elevation Range
0-10 meters
Flood Zone
Coastal Flood Zone

The Broughton River can overflow during periods of heavy rainfall, inundating nearby properties. Coastal areas are susceptible to storm surge flooding.

View council flood map

Bushfire Evidence

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

While not immediately surrounded by dense bushland, the presence of dry scrubland nearby increases the potential for bushfire risk, especially during hot and windy conditions.

Heat Evidence

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

The average maximum temperature in January is increasing, leading to more frequent and intense heat stress events. This can impact human health and infrastructure.

Coastal Evidence

Distance to Coast
0.5 km
Sea Level Rise Exposure
Low-lying areas are exposed to sea level rise
Erosion Risk
Moderate erosion risk along the coastline

Historical Climate Events

2016
stormModerate

Severe storms caused flash flooding and property damage in Port Broughton.

Source
2019
heatwaveModerate

A prolonged heatwave resulted in heat stress and health concerns for vulnerable residents.

Source
2021
floodMinor

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

Source

Climate Outlook to 2050

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

HazardToday20302050
flood6.57.0(+0.5)7.5(+1.0)
bushfire3.03.2(+0.2)3.4(+0.4)
heat7.07.8(+0.8)8.5(+1.5)
coastal6.77.3(+0.6)7.9(+1.2)

By 2030, Port Broughton is projected to experience a moderate increase in overall climate risk, with notable increases in heatwave intensity and coastal flooding.

CSIRO Climate Projections

Adaptation Recommendations

Upgrade stormwater drainage infrastructure

Near-term

Improve the capacity of stormwater drains to handle increased rainfall intensity and reduce the risk of flooding.

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

Establish cooling centers and provide support for vulnerable residents during heatwaves.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

Raise awareness about climate risks

Long-term

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

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

About Port Broughton's Climate Risk Profile

Port Broughton, located on the Yorke Peninsula in South Australia, is increasingly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. The primary risks include flooding from heavy rainfall and storm surges, heatwaves, and coastal erosion due to sea level rise.

The risk of flooding is expected to increase as rainfall intensity rises and storm surges become more frequent. Low-lying areas near the coast are particularly vulnerable. Heatwaves are also becoming more common and intense, posing a threat to public health, especially for vulnerable populations.

Coastal erosion is another significant concern, with sea level rise threatening to inundate low-lying areas and damage infrastructure. The local council is working to implement adaptation measures to mitigate these risks, but further action is needed.

Residents and property owners should take steps to prepare for these climate-related hazards, including developing emergency plans, investing in flood protection measures, and ensuring adequate insurance coverage. Staying informed about the latest climate projections and adaptation strategies is crucial for building resilience in Port Broughton.

Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · SA SES · Barunga West Council

Local Government Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main climate change risks in Port Broughton?

The main climate change risks in Port Broughton are flooding, heatwaves, and coastal erosion due to sea level rise.

How is the council preparing for climate change?

The Barunga West Council is implementing various adaptation measures, including upgrading stormwater drainage, constructing coastal defenses, and developing a heatwave management plan.

What can residents do to prepare for climate change?

Residents can prepare by developing emergency plans, investing in flood protection measures, and ensuring adequate insurance coverage. Staying informed about the latest climate projections and adaptation strategies is also crucial.

Where can I find more information about flood risks in Port Broughton?

You can find more information about flood risks on the Barunga West Council website and the South Australian Department for Environment and Water website.

Are insurance premiums likely to increase in Port Broughton due to climate change?

Yes, insurance premiums are likely to increase due to the increasing risks of flooding, heatwaves, and coastal erosion.

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