Understand the natural and climate risks affecting your property and prepare for the future with our risk assessments.
People in Ireland will experience especially increased risks from heat waves, heavy precipitation and severe wind due to climate change over the next 30 years. These risks, through 2050 and beyond, may change depending on how much we reduce emissions in the near future.
Projected increase in average summer temperatures in Ireland by 2050.
Extremely hot days annually by 2050 (compared to fewer than 2 days in 1991–2000).
Projected increase in the intensity of heavy rainfall events by 2050.
Properties at risk of extreme weather events by 2050, including flooding and storm damage.
These projections are based on the widely-accepted RCP4.5 climate scenario, which represents a moderate emissions pathway – with greenhouse gas emissions expected to peak around 2040 and then gradually decline, leading to stabilized concentrations by the end of the century. Our analysis uses advanced climate models, high-resolution satellite data, and machine learning algorithms to provide accurate predictions.
Ireland’s geography shapes regionally distinct climate risks. Western areas, including counties along the Atlantic coast (e.g., Galway, Mayo, Kerry), are more exposed to heavy rainfall, strong winds, and Atlantic storm systems, increasing the risk of flooding and coastal erosion. In contrast, eastern and southeastern regions (such as Dublin, Wexford, and Wicklow) are experiencing growing risks from rising temperatures, heatwaves, and water scarcity. Our property-specific analysis accounts for these crucial regional differences.
CLIMATIG Score Risk Ratings measure the risk posed by a hazard on a 0-100 scale, based on historical conditions and future projections through 2050. While a lower score indicates reduced risk, it does not mean zero exposure - climate change has complex, interacting local and large-scale effects that impact everyone.
Heatwaves in Ireland are becoming increasingly frequent, prolonged, and intense due to climate change. Rising temperatures pose a growing threat to health, wellbeing, and overall quality of life, particularly among vulnerable populations.
Although Ireland traditionally experiences a mild oceanic climate, recent years have seen unprecedented summer temperatures. Projections for the period 2041-2070 indicate an average summer temperature increase of approximately 2.0-2.6°C compared to the historical reference period (1961-1990). This significantly increases the risk of heat-related impact on people, infrastructure and property.
When intensive rainfall occurs in a short period, water systems can be overwhelmed, leading to erosion and damaging floods. These events are particularly dangerous after prolonged drought periods when soil has reduced water absorption capacity.
In Ireland, while total annual rainfall may not change significantly by mid-century, extreme rainfall events are projected to become both more intense and more frequent. Urban centers such as Dublin, Cork, Limerick, and Galway have already experienced heavier downpours in recent years, increasing the risks of flash flooding and water-related disruptions. These risks are expected to escalate without adaptation measures in place.
Strong winds are among Ireland’s most persistent and damaging climate hazards, especially during the autumn and winter storm seasons. The country’s Atlantic-facing position exposes it to frequent storms and cyclonic systems, with western and coastal counties such as Kerry, Mayo, and Donegal particularly affected.
Gusts during severe storms regularly exceed 30 m/s, with extreme cases reaching over 50 m/s, capable of damaging roofs, uprooting trees, and disrupting power and transport networks. While average wind speeds are not projected to rise significantly, the severity and frequency of damaging wind events may increase with climate change, particularly when combined with saturated ground and high tides. Properties in exposed locations face greater vulnerability to wind-related damage.
Ireland’s extensive coastline makes coastal areas particularly vulnerable to rising sea levels and storm surges. Combined with high tides and stronger storms, these conditions can cause flooding of low-lying areas, damage to coastal infrastructure, and erosion of beaches and dunes. Urban centers like Dublin, Cork, and Galway are especially exposed, with climate projections indicating a significant increase in sea level of 0.3–0.5 meters by 2100, intensifying flood risk in the absence of robust defenses.
Heavy and prolonged rainfall can lead to river flooding, especially in catchments like the Shannon, Lee, and Liffey. Flood events in recent decades have damaged homes, businesses, and infrastructure, particularly in Athlone, Cork City, and Carlow. Climate models project an increase in intense rainfall and storm events, placing further strain on existing river systems and flood defenses, and increasing the need for improved planning and early warning systems.
Though Ireland is known for its wet climate, climate change is increasing the risk of summer droughts, especially in the east and southeast. Extended dry periods can affect water supply, agriculture, and landscaping, particularly for properties that rely on private wells or have water-intensive gardens. Droughts also raise the risk of wildfires in peatlands and grasslands. While not as severe as in southern Europe, Irish droughts are projected to increase in frequency and duration.
In mountainous and upland regions such as Donegal, Kerry, and Wicklow, landslides (also known as bog slides or peat slides) can occur following heavy rainfall or rapid snowmelt. These events can damage property, block roads, and impact ecosystems. Climate projections indicating more intense rainfall increase the likelihood of slope instability, particularly in areas with saturated or vulnerable soil types. Though localized, landslides can have serious consequences for rural infrastructure and safety.
Ireland’s varied landscape means climate risks differ significantly between regions. Our analysis identifies locations with the highest risk levels.
Climate adaptation measures can help protect your property and investment from increasing climate risks.
As temperatures rise, protecting your property from heat becomes increasingly important.
Flooding from extreme rainfall events can cause significant property damage.
Strong winds can have devastating effects on poorly constructed buildings.
Climate risks are increasingly factored into property valuations and insurance premiums. Properties with high exposure to heat waves, flooding, or wind damage may face:
Having a detailed risk assessment helps you make informed decisions, negotiate better insurance terms, and implement targeted adaptation measures to protect your investment.
