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PROPERTY ANALYTICS

Climate Risk Profile: Smithton, TAS

Smithton, Tasmania· UNKNOWN· 7330
Medium Risk
Updated Mar 2026

Smithton is a coastal town in Tasmania facing increasing climate risks, particularly from flooding and coastal hazards. Rising sea levels and more intense rainfall events are key concerns. Residents should prepare for potential impacts and adapt to changing conditions.

Overall Risk Score

5.2/10
Medium

Confidence: Medium

Hazard Breakdown

Flood
6.5
Bushfire
4.0
Heat
3.0
Coastal
7.0

Detailed Hazard Analysis

heat Risk

3.0/10

Smithton experiences relatively mild summers, but heatwaves are becoming more frequent. Vulnerable populations may be at risk during extreme heat events.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Increased frequency of heatwaves
  • ·Higher average temperatures

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

3.5

2050

4.0

Data source

flood Risk

6.5/10

Smithton faces a moderate risk of flooding due to its proximity to the Duck River and low-lying areas. Increased rainfall intensity could exacerbate this risk.

Primary Drivers

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

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

7.0

2050

7.5

Data source

coastal Risk

7.0/10

Smithton is highly vulnerable to coastal hazards due to its low elevation and proximity to the coast. Sea level rise and storm surges pose a significant threat.

Primary Drivers

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

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

7.5

2050

8.0

Data source

bushfire Risk

4.0/10

The risk of bushfires in Smithton is moderate, influenced by surrounding vegetation and dry conditions during summer. Climate change may lead to longer fire seasons.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Increased temperatures
  • ·Drier conditions
  • ·Increased fuel load

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

4.5

2050

5.0

Data source

What This Means for Property Owners

Insurance Outlook

Insurance premiums may increase due to climate risks.

Price Impact

Property values in vulnerable areas may be negatively impacted.

Buyer Checklist

  • 1.Check flood maps and coastal erosion risk assessments.
  • 2.Assess bushfire risk and implement mitigation measures.
  • 3.Consider the potential impact of sea level rise on property value.
  • 4.Inquire about insurance coverage and premiums.

Local Climate Evidence

Flood Evidence

Nearest Waterway
Duck River
Elevation Range
0-20 meters
Flood Zone
Coastal and riverine flood zones identified

Low-lying areas near the Duck River are particularly vulnerable to flooding.

View council flood map

Bushfire Evidence

Distance to Bushland
Adjacent to forested areas
Planning Overlay
Bushfire-prone area overlay applies
Bushfire Prone Area
Yes

Areas with dense vegetation are at higher risk.

Heat Evidence

Avg January Max Temp
22°C
Heat Stress Days/Year
0.5 days

Heat stress events are relatively infrequent but expected to increase.

Coastal Evidence

Distance to Coast
0.5 km
Sea Level Rise Exposure
Significant exposure to sea level rise
Erosion Risk
Moderate erosion risk

Historical Climate Events

2016
floodModerate

Major flooding occurred in the region, impacting Smithton and surrounding areas. The Duck River overflowed, causing damage to properties and infrastructure.

Source
2013
bushfireModerate

Bushfires impacted areas near Smithton, leading to evacuations and property damage.

Source
2007
stormModerate

A severe storm caused widespread damage in Smithton, including power outages and fallen trees.

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)
bushfire4.04.3(+0.3)4.5(+0.5)
heat3.03.2(+0.2)3.4(+0.4)
coastal7.07.7(+0.7)8.2(+1.2)

By 2030, Smithton is projected to experience an increase in flood risk due to rising sea levels and more intense rainfall events. Bushfire risk is also expected to increase, along with more frequent heatwaves. Coastal erosion will continue to be a concern.

CSIRO Climate Projections

Adaptation Recommendations

Upgrade Drainage Infrastructure

Near-term

Improve drainage systems to handle increased rainfall intensity and reduce the risk of flash flooding.

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 Bushfire Management Plans

Near-term

Create and implement bushfire management plans to reduce the risk of property damage and loss of life.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

Establish Heatwave Early Warning System

Long-term

Develop a heatwave early warning system to alert vulnerable populations to extreme heat events.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

About Smithton's Climate Risk Profile

Smithton, located in Tasmania, is increasingly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. The town's low-lying coastal location makes it particularly susceptible to sea level rise and storm surges, which could lead to increased flooding and coastal erosion.

Changes in rainfall patterns, including more intense rainfall events, are also a concern. This could overwhelm existing drainage infrastructure and increase the risk of flash flooding in urban areas. The surrounding vegetation also contributes to a moderate bushfire risk, which could be exacerbated by hotter, drier conditions.

Heatwaves, while less frequent than in other parts of Australia, are expected to become more common and intense in Smithton. This could pose a risk to vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions.

Addressing these climate risks will require a combination of adaptation and mitigation measures. This includes investing in improved drainage infrastructure, implementing coastal protection measures, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · Tasmanian State Emergency Service · Tasmanian Fire Service

Local Government Resources

UNKNOWN

Climate StrategyFlood MapsEmergency Services

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main climate change risks facing Smithton?

Smithton is primarily at risk from flooding, coastal erosion, and bushfires due to climate change.

How will sea level rise affect Smithton?

Sea level rise will increase the risk of coastal inundation and erosion, potentially impacting properties and infrastructure near the coast.

What can I do to protect my property from flooding?

Consider installing flood barriers, elevating your home, and improving drainage around your property.

How can I prepare for a bushfire?

Clear vegetation around your home, create a bushfire survival plan, and have an emergency kit ready.

Where can I find more information about climate change risks in Smithton?

Consult the Tasmanian State Emergency Service, the Bureau of Meteorology, and CSIRO for the latest information and resources.

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