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Climate Risk Profile: Wynnum, QLD

Wynnum, Queensland· Brisbane City Council· 4178
Medium Risk
Updated Apr 2026

Wynnum is a coastal suburb in Brisbane facing increasing risks from flooding, heatwaves, and coastal hazards due to climate change. Sea level rise and more intense rainfall events are key drivers of these risks, potentially impacting property values and community well-being.

Overall Risk Score

58/100
Medium

Confidence: Medium

Hazard Breakdown

Flood
7.5
Bushfire
2.0
Heat
6.0
Coastal
7.5

Climate Hazard Breakdown for Wynnum

increasing

Flood

75/100

Wynnum faces a notable flood risk due to its low-lying coastal location and proximity to waterways. Heavy rainfall events can lead to stormwater and riverine flooding.

Key drivers:

  • ·Sea level rise
  • ·Increased rainfall intensity
stable

Bushfire

20/100

Bushfire risk in Wynnum is relatively low due to the suburb's coastal location and limited vegetation. However, dry conditions and strong winds can increase the risk.

Key drivers:

  • ·Dry vegetation
  • ·Strong winds
increasing

Heat

60/100

Wynnum experiences moderate heat risk, with increasing average temperatures and more frequent heatwaves. Vulnerable populations are at higher risk during extreme heat events.

Key drivers:

  • ·Climate change
  • ·Urban heat island effect
increasing

Coastal

75/100

As a coastal suburb, Wynnum is highly vulnerable to coastal hazards such as sea level rise, storm surge, and coastal erosion. These hazards can impact infrastructure, property, and ecosystems.

Key drivers:

  • ·Sea level rise
  • ·Increased storm intensity
increasing

Wind

35/100

Notable wind risk — tropical cyclone wind fields

increasing

Storm

39/100

Notable storm risk — cyclones and thunderstorms

stable

Social

24/100

Moderate social stability — growth regions

increasing

Energy

42/100

Elevated energy costs — high cooling demand

In-Depth Climate Risk Guides for Wynnum

Should I Buy

Property buying guide with climate risk assessment

Flood Risk

Flood zone mapping, historical events, and projections

Bushfire Risk

BAL assessment, vegetation proximity, and fire history

Climate Safety

Multi-hazard safety assessment to 2050

Storm Risk

Severe weather, hail, and wind risk analysis

Heat Risk

Extreme heat days, urban heat island, and cooling costs

Insurance Costs

Premium estimates and insurance availability

Investment Score

Climate-adjusted property investment analysis

Detailed Hazard Analysis

heat Risk

60/100

Wynnum experiences moderate heat risk, with increasing average temperatures and more frequent heatwaves. Vulnerable populations are at higher risk during extreme heat events.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Climate change
  • ·Urban heat island effect

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

6.5

2050

7.0

Data source

flood Risk

75/100

Wynnum faces a notable flood risk due to its low-lying coastal location and proximity to waterways. Heavy rainfall events can lead to stormwater and riverine flooding.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Sea level rise
  • ·Increased rainfall intensity
  • ·Urban development

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

8.0

2050

8.5

Data source

coastal Risk

75/100

As a coastal suburb, Wynnum is highly vulnerable to coastal hazards such as sea level rise, storm surge, and coastal erosion. These hazards can impact infrastructure, property, and ecosystems.

Primary Drivers

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

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

8.0

2050

8.5

Data source

bushfire Risk

20/100

Bushfire risk in Wynnum is relatively low due to the suburb's coastal location and limited vegetation. However, dry conditions and strong winds can increase the risk.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Dry vegetation
  • ·Strong winds
  • ·Arson

Projections (RCP4.5)

2030

2.2

2050

2.5

Data source

What This Means for Property Owners

Insurance Outlook

Insurance premiums are likely to increase due to flood and coastal risks.

Price Impact

Properties closer to the coast may experience price impacts due to increased risk.

Buyer Checklist

  • 1.Check flood maps and historical flood data
  • 2.Assess property's elevation and drainage
  • 3.Consider potential impacts of sea level rise
  • 4.Review insurance options and costs
  • 5.Inquire about council's climate adaptation plans

Local Climate Evidence

Flood Evidence

Nearest Waterway
Moreton Bay
Elevation Range
0-10 meters
Flood Zone
Coastal and riverine flood zones

Historical flood events have impacted properties along the waterfront and low-lying areas.

View council flood map

Bushfire Evidence

Distance to Bushland
2-5 km to nearby bushland reserves
Planning Overlay
Qld Fire and Emergency Services Bushfire Prone Area Map
Bushfire Prone Area
Yes

While the immediate suburb is mostly developed, surrounding areas have bushfire risk.

Heat Evidence

Avg January Max Temp
30.5°C
Heat Stress Days/Year
5 days

Heatwaves can strain local infrastructure and increase demand for cooling.

Coastal Evidence

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

Historical Climate Events

2011
floodMajor

The 2011 Brisbane floods caused significant inundation in Wynnum, affecting homes and businesses.

Source
2013
stormModerate

A severe storm caused damage to property and infrastructure in Wynnum, with strong winds and heavy rainfall.

Source
2020
heatwaveModerate

A prolonged heatwave in January 2020 led to increased hospital admissions and strain on energy infrastructure.

Source
1974
floodMajor

The 1974 Brisbane floods caused widespread inundation in Wynnum, impacting homes and businesses.

Source

Climate Outlook to 2050

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

HazardToday20302050
flood758.0(+0.5)8.5(+1.0)
bushfire202.1(+0.1)2.3(+0.3)
heat606.3(+0.3)6.7(+0.7)
coastal758.1(+0.6)8.7(+1.2)

By 2030, Wynnum is projected to experience a moderate increase in overall climate risk, with notable increases in flood and coastal hazards. Heatwaves are expected to become more frequent and intense.

CSIRO Climate Projections

Adaptation Recommendations

Upgrade drainage infrastructure

Near-term

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

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Protect and restore coastal habitats

Long-term

Restore mangroves and other coastal vegetation to provide natural buffers against sea level rise and storm surge.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Implement heatwave early warning systems

Immediate

Develop and implement heatwave early warning systems to alert vulnerable populations and provide guidance on how to stay safe during extreme heat events.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

Raise awareness about climate risks

Near-term

Conduct community education campaigns to raise awareness about climate risks and promote adaptation measures.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

Strengthen building codes

Long-term

Update building codes to ensure that new buildings are resilient to climate change impacts, such as flooding and heatwaves.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

About Wynnum's Climate Risk Profile

Wynnum, a charming bayside suburb of Brisbane, is increasingly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. Its low-lying coastal location makes it particularly susceptible to rising sea levels and storm surges, which can lead to increased flooding and coastal erosion. The suburb also faces challenges from more frequent and intense heatwaves, impacting vulnerable populations and infrastructure.

Flooding is a significant concern for Wynnum, with heavy rainfall events causing stormwater and riverine flooding. Climate change is expected to exacerbate this risk, with more intense rainfall and rising sea levels increasing the frequency and severity of floods. This can lead to property damage, disruption to transportation, and potential health risks.

Heatwaves are also becoming more common and intense in Wynnum, posing a threat to public health, especially for the elderly, children, and those with chronic illnesses. The urban heat island effect can further amplify these impacts, making it essential to implement strategies to mitigate heat risks.

Coastal hazards, such as sea level rise and storm surge, pose a long-term threat to Wynnum's coastal areas. These hazards can lead to erosion of beaches and foreshores, damage to coastal infrastructure, and loss of coastal ecosystems. Protecting and restoring coastal habitats can help to buffer against these impacts.

Addressing these climate risks requires a coordinated effort from local government, residents, and businesses. Implementing adaptation measures, such as improving drainage infrastructure, promoting green infrastructure, and raising awareness about climate risks, can help to build resilience and protect Wynnum's community and assets.

Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · Qld Fire and Emergency Services · Brisbane City Council

Local Government Resources

Brisbane City Council

Climate StrategyFlood MapsEmergency Services

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main climate change risks for Wynnum?

Wynnum faces increasing risks from flooding, heatwaves, and coastal hazards due to climate change. Sea level rise and more intense rainfall events are key drivers of these risks.

How will sea level rise affect Wynnum?

Sea level rise can lead to increased coastal erosion, inundation of low-lying areas, and damage to coastal infrastructure in Wynnum.

What can I do to protect my property from flooding in Wynnum?

Consider raising your property, improving drainage, and installing flood barriers. Check the Brisbane City Council flood maps for detailed information.

How can I prepare for heatwaves in Wynnum?

Stay hydrated, seek air-conditioned environments, and check on vulnerable neighbors. Follow advice from Queensland Health during heatwave events.

Is Wynnum a good place to invest in property considering climate change?

While Wynnum is a desirable bayside suburb, it's important to consider the potential impacts of climate change on property values and insurance costs. Conduct thorough due diligence and assess the risks before investing.

What is Brisbane City Council doing to address climate change in Wynnum?

Brisbane City Council is implementing various adaptation measures, such as upgrading drainage infrastructure, protecting coastal habitats, and raising awareness about climate risks. Refer to the Council's Climate Adaptation Strategy for more information.

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