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PROPERTY ANALYTICS

Climate Risk Profile: Riverside, Tasmania

Riverside, Tasmania· West Tamar· 7250
Medium Risk
Updated Mar 2026

Riverside faces a moderate overall climate risk, primarily driven by flooding and coastal hazards. Rising sea levels and increased rainfall intensity pose significant threats to the suburb. Residents should prepare for more frequent extreme weather events and consider adaptation measures.

Overall Risk Score

5.2/10
Medium

Confidence: Medium

Hazard Breakdown

Flood
6.5
Bushfire
3.0
Heat
4.0
Coastal
7.0

Detailed Hazard Analysis

heat Risk

4.0/10

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

Primary Drivers

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

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

4.5

2050

5.0

Data source

flood Risk

6.5/10

Riverside faces a moderate risk of flooding due to its proximity to the Tamar River and low-lying areas. Increased rainfall intensity and rising river levels are expected to exacerbate this risk.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Increased rainfall intensity
  • ·Rising river levels
  • ·Urban development

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

7.0

2050

7.5

Data source

coastal Risk

7.0/10

Riverside is at a high risk from coastal hazards due to its location on the Tamar River estuary. Sea level rise and increased storm surges are expected to worsen coastal erosion and inundation.

Primary Drivers

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

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

7.5

2050

8.0

Data source

bushfire Risk

3.0/10

The bushfire risk in Riverside is relatively low compared to other regions in Tasmania, but it's not negligible. Dry vegetation and potential ignition sources contribute to the risk.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Dry vegetation
  • ·Ignition sources
  • ·Wind patterns

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

3.2

2050

3.5

Data source

What This Means for Property Owners

Insurance Outlook

Insurance premiums may increase in the future due to increased flood and coastal risks.

Price Impact

Properties in high-risk areas may experience a decrease in value.

Buyer Checklist

  • 1.Check flood maps and coastal inundation zones.
  • 2.Assess the property's vulnerability to flooding and coastal erosion.
  • 3.Inquire about insurance costs and coverage.
  • 4.Consider the long-term climate risks when making a purchase decision.

Local Climate Evidence

Flood Evidence

Nearest Waterway
Tamar River
Elevation Range
5-20 meters
Flood Zone
Areas adjacent to the Tamar River are designated as flood zones.

Historical flood events have impacted Riverside, particularly areas close to the river. The council has implemented some flood mitigation measures, but further investment is needed to address future risks.

View council flood map

Bushfire Evidence

Distance to Bushland
Approximately 2 km to the nearest bushland area.
Planning Overlay
Bushfire-prone areas are identified in the West Tamar Council's planning scheme.
Bushfire Prone Area
Yes

While not as high as other regions, residents should maintain their properties to reduce fuel loads and be aware of fire safety during the bushfire season.

Heat Evidence

Avg January Max Temp
24°C
Heat Stress Days/Year
1.5 days

Heatwaves can pose a risk to elderly residents and those with pre-existing health conditions. Access to cooling centers and public awareness campaigns are important.

Coastal Evidence

Distance to Coast
0.5 km
Sea Level Rise Exposure
Low-lying areas are exposed to sea level rise impacts.
Erosion Risk
Some areas along the riverfront are at risk of erosion.

Historical Climate Events

2016
floodModerate

The Tamar River experienced significant flooding, impacting low-lying areas in Riverside.

Source
2013
bushfireMinor

A bushfire near Riverside caused some concern, but was quickly contained.

Source
2009
floodModerate

Heavy rainfall caused flooding in Riverside, affecting several homes and businesses.

Source
2019
heatwaveModerate

Riverside experienced a prolonged heatwave, with temperatures exceeding 35°C for several days.

Source

Climate Outlook to 2050

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

HazardToday2030205020302050
flood6.56.9(+0.4)7.3(+0.8)7.1(+0.6)7.8(+1.3)
bushfire3.03.1(+0.1)3.2(+0.2)3.2(+0.2)3.4(+0.4)
heat4.04.2(+0.2)4.4(+0.4)4.3(+0.3)4.6(+0.6)
coastal7.07.5(+0.5)8.0(+1.0)7.7(+0.7)8.5(+1.5)

Under a moderate emissions scenario, Riverside is projected to experience a slight increase in overall climate risk by 2030, with the most significant impacts from flooding and coastal hazards.

CSIRO Climate Projections

Adaptation Recommendations

Upgrade Flood Defenses

Immediate

Invest in improving flood defenses, such as levees and drainage systems, to protect properties from flooding.

Est. cost: High

Learn more

Implement Coastal Protection Measures

Near-term

Implement coastal protection measures, such as seawalls and beach nourishment, to reduce coastal erosion and inundation.

Est. cost: High

Learn more

Improve Drainage Systems

Near-term

Improve drainage systems to reduce the risk of flash flooding during heavy rainfall events.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Raise Awareness and Preparedness

Immediate

Raise community awareness about climate risks and promote preparedness measures, such as emergency kits and evacuation plans.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

Develop Heat Action Plans

Near-term

Develop heat action plans to protect vulnerable populations during heatwaves, including establishing cooling centers and providing support to elderly residents.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

About Riverside's Climate Risk Profile

Riverside, Tasmania, is a suburb located on the western bank of the Tamar River, placing it at considerable risk from climate change impacts. The primary concerns for Riverside are flooding from the Tamar River and coastal inundation due to sea level rise. Increased rainfall intensity and storm surges are projected to exacerbate these risks, potentially impacting residential areas and infrastructure.

The suburb's proximity to the river makes it particularly vulnerable to flooding during periods of heavy rainfall. Climate change models predict an increase in extreme rainfall events, which could lead to more frequent and severe flooding in Riverside. This poses a threat to homes, businesses, and essential services.

In addition to flooding, Riverside is also susceptible to coastal hazards. Sea level rise is expected to cause increased coastal erosion and inundation, particularly during high tides and storm surges. This could impact properties located near the riverfront and disrupt transportation routes.

While bushfire risk is relatively lower compared to other parts of Tasmania, it is still a factor to consider, especially during dry periods. Heatwaves are also expected to become more frequent and intense, posing a risk to vulnerable populations. Residents should take steps to prepare for these events and mitigate their impact.

Addressing these climate risks will require a combination of adaptation and mitigation measures. This includes investing in flood defenses, improving drainage systems, implementing coastal protection strategies, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Community engagement and awareness are also crucial to ensure that residents are informed and prepared for the challenges ahead.

Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · SES Tasmania · West Tamar Council

Local Government Resources

West Tamar Council

Climate StrategyFlood MapsEmergency Services

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main climate change risks for Riverside?

The main climate change risks for Riverside are flooding from the Tamar River, coastal inundation due to sea level rise, and increased frequency of heatwaves.

How is the West Tamar Council addressing climate change?

The West Tamar Council is developing and implementing climate adaptation strategies to address the risks posed by climate change, including investing in flood defenses and coastal protection measures.

What can residents do to prepare for flooding in Riverside?

Residents can prepare for flooding by checking flood maps, having an emergency kit, and developing an evacuation plan. It's also important to ensure that properties are adequately insured.

Where can I find information about emergency services in Riverside?

Information about emergency services in Riverside can be found on the State Emergency Service (SES) website.

Are there any community initiatives to address climate change in Riverside?

Yes, there are several community initiatives focused on sustainability and climate action. Contact the West Tamar Council for more information.

How will sea level rise affect properties in Riverside?

Sea level rise is expected to cause increased coastal erosion and inundation, particularly during high tides and storm surges, which could impact properties located near the riverfront.

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