Climate Risk in Salisbury Heights, SA

Salisbury Heights, South Australia· City of Salisbury· 5109
Medium Risk
Updated Apr 2026

Salisbury Heights faces moderate risks from flooding, bushfires, and heatwaves. Climate change is projected to increase the severity of heatwaves and potentially flooding events, requiring residents to take proactive adaptation measures.

Overall Risk Score

58/100
Medium

Confidence: Medium

Hazard Breakdown

Flood
4.2
Bushfire
6.5
Heat
7.0
Coastal
1.0

Climate Hazard Breakdown for Salisbury Heights

increasing

Flood

42/100

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

Key drivers:

  • ·Increased rainfall intensity
  • ·Urban development
stable

Bushfire

65/100

The suburb has a notable bushfire risk due to its proximity to vegetated areas. Hot, dry summers and strong winds can exacerbate the risk.

Key drivers:

  • ·Dry vegetation
  • ·High temperatures
increasing

Heat

70/100

Salisbury Heights experiences high temperatures during summer, leading to potential heat stress for vulnerable populations. Climate change is expected to increase the frequency and intensity of heatwaves.

Key drivers:

  • ·Rising average temperatures
  • ·Increased frequency of heatwaves
stable

Coastal

10/100

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

Key drivers:

  • ·Distance from the coast
stable

Wind

28/100

Moderate wind risk — gusty northerly winds

stable

Storm

24/100

Moderate storm risk — occasional thunderstorms

stable

Social

21/100

Moderate social stability

increasing

Energy

35/100

Moderate energy costs — summer cooling

In-Depth Climate Risk Guides for Salisbury Heights

Detailed Hazard Analysis

heat Risk

70/100

Salisbury Heights experiences high temperatures during summer, leading to potential heat stress for vulnerable populations. Climate change is expected to increase the frequency and intensity of heatwaves.

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

42/100

Salisbury Heights faces a moderate risk of flooding, primarily from heavy rainfall events and potential 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

4.5

2050

4.8

Data source

coastal Risk

10/100

Salisbury Heights 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 the coast

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

1.0

2050

1.0

Data source

bushfire Risk

65/100

The suburb has a notable bushfire risk due to its proximity to vegetated areas. Hot, dry summers and strong winds can exacerbate the risk.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Dry vegetation
  • ·High temperatures
  • ·Wind patterns

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

6.5

2050

6.6

Data source

What This Means for Property Owners

Insurance Outlook

Insurers may increase premiums in response to increased flood and bushfire risks.

Price Impact

Properties in flood-prone or bushfire-prone areas may experience price fluctuations.

Buyer Checklist

  • 1.Check flood maps and bushfire overlays.
  • 2.Assess property's vulnerability to heatwaves.
  • 3.Review insurance options and premiums.
  • 4.Consider energy efficiency upgrades.

Local Climate Evidence

Flood Evidence

Nearest Waterway
Dry Creek
Elevation Range
50-80m
Flood Zone
Areas adjacent to Dry Creek are susceptible to flooding.

The City of Salisbury maintains flood maps and provides information on flood preparedness.

View council flood map

Bushfire Evidence

Distance to Bushland
Adjacent to Cobbler Creek Recreation Park
Planning Overlay
Refer to the CFS website for current bushfire overlays.
Bushfire Prone Area
Yes

Residents should maintain firebreaks and have a bushfire survival plan.

Heat Evidence

Avg January Max Temp
32°C
Heat Stress Days/Year
5 days

Ensure adequate hydration and access to cooling during heatwaves.

Coastal Evidence

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

Historical Climate Events

2022
floodModerate

Heavy rainfall caused localized flooding in parts of Salisbury Heights, impacting some residential areas.

Source
2019
heatwaveMajor

Extreme heatwave conditions affected Salisbury Heights, with temperatures exceeding 40°C for several consecutive days.

Source
2015
bushfireMinor

A bushfire near Cobbler Creek Recreation Park threatened properties in Salisbury Heights, but was contained by fire services.

Source
2010
floodModerate

Significant rainfall event led to stormwater flooding in low-lying areas of Salisbury Heights.

Source

Climate Outlook to 2050

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

HazardToday20302050
flood424.4(+0.2)4.6(+0.4)
bushfire656.6(+0.1)6.7(+0.2)
heat707.5(+0.5)8.2(+1.2)
coastal101.01.0

By 2030, Salisbury Heights is projected to experience a slight increase in overall climate risk, primarily driven by more frequent and intense heatwaves. Flood risk may also increase due to changes in rainfall patterns.

CSIRO Climate Projections

Adaptation Recommendations

Improve stormwater drainage infrastructure

Near-term

Upgrade and maintain stormwater drainage systems to reduce the risk of flooding during heavy rainfall events.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Develop and implement a heatwave management plan

Immediate

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

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

Implement bushfire mitigation measures

Near-term

Maintain firebreaks, clear vegetation around properties, and develop a community bushfire preparedness plan.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

Promote water conservation

Long-term

Encourage residents to conserve water through rainwater harvesting, efficient irrigation, and water-wise landscaping.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

About Salisbury Heights's Climate Risk Profile

Salisbury Heights, located in South Australia, is subject to a range of climate-related risks. The primary concerns are flooding due to intense rainfall, bushfire risk from surrounding vegetation, and increasing heatwave frequency and intensity during the summer months.

Flooding risk is influenced by the suburb's topography and the capacity of its stormwater drainage systems. Intense rainfall events can lead to localized flooding, impacting properties and infrastructure. Bushfire risk is elevated due to the proximity of bushland, particularly during hot and dry conditions. Residents need to be prepared for potential bushfire threats.

Heatwaves pose a significant health risk, especially for vulnerable populations such as the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions. The urban heat island effect can exacerbate temperatures in built-up areas. Coastal risks are minimal due to the suburb's inland location.

Adapting to these climate risks requires a combination of individual preparedness, community-level initiatives, and government policies. This includes measures such as improving drainage infrastructure, implementing bushfire management strategies, and promoting heatwave preparedness programs.

Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · SA CFS · City of Salisbury

Local Government Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main climate change risks for Salisbury Heights?

The main climate change risks for Salisbury Heights are increased heatwave frequency and intensity, and a higher risk of flooding due to more intense rainfall events. Bushfire risk is also a concern.

How can I prepare my home for a heatwave in Salisbury Heights?

To prepare your home for a heatwave, ensure you have adequate insulation, air conditioning or fans, and stay hydrated. Check on vulnerable neighbors and family members.

What should I do during a flood in Salisbury Heights?

During a flood, stay informed about emergency warnings, avoid driving through floodwaters, and move to higher ground if necessary. Contact emergency services if you need assistance.

How can I protect my property from bushfires in Salisbury Heights?

To protect your property from bushfires, maintain firebreaks, clear vegetation around your home, and have a bushfire survival plan. Stay informed about fire danger ratings and warnings.

Where can I find information about emergency services in Salisbury Heights?

Information about emergency services in Salisbury Heights can be found on the South Australian government's emergency services website or the City of Salisbury website.

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What A$69 could save you from

$7.2B
2022 insured disaster losses*
$300B+
climate risk to property by 2050*
30-120%
insurance premium increases in high-risk areas*

*Industry sources: ICA, APRA, RBA

Full report from A$69 · Australian addresses only · 8 hazard scores · Insurance trajectory · 2030 & 2050 projections