Coastal erosion is the loss of land along the shoreline due to the natural removal of sand, vegetation and other features due to changing wave and water conditions. During severe storms, coastal erosion can happen rapidly, potentially causing damage and putting people, properties, and infrastructure in danger.
Weather conditions leading to coastal erosion in NSW are typically associated with intense low pressure systems off the coast which generate large waves and higher sea levels. These low pressure systems include tropical cyclones, ex-tropical cyclones and east coast lows.
The extent of coastal erosion can be influenced by a range of factors, both natural and unnatural, including tide, waves, water currents, runoff, headlands, storms, vegetation, building and development and coastal management activities
Climate change is likely to increase coastal erosion over time, as sea levels rise, and the intensity of storms increase. Infrastructure like roads, access to beaches and connection to utilities are also likely to be impacted during these events.
Coastal inundation
Coastal inundation happens when sea water rises high enough that it floods infrastructure and buildings or endangers peoples' safety. Along the NSW coast there are many low-lying areas above the normal high tide level that are subject to coastal inundation. These include wetlands, coastal lagoons and rivers. As well as other areas behind beach and dune systems like roads, paths, parks and residentials areas.
During severe weather, buildings and infrastructure in low-lying coastal areas can be inundated by storm surges. The NSW SES is responsible for the emergency management of coastal erosion and flooding due to severe storms. This includes preparing emergency plans for areas at risk of coastal erosion and inundation.