Climate Risk in Bassendean, WA

Bassendean, Western Australia· Town of Bassendean· 6054
Medium Risk
Updated Mar 2026

Bassendean faces increasing risks from flooding and heatwaves due to climate change. While bushfire and coastal risks are relatively low, the suburb needs to adapt to more extreme weather events.

Overall Risk Score

5.2/10
Medium

Confidence: Medium

Hazard Breakdown

Flood
6.5
Bushfire
3.0
Heat
7.0
Coastal
1.0

Detailed Hazard Analysis

heat Risk

7.0/10

Bassendean is likely to experience more frequent and intense heatwaves, impacting vulnerable populations and infrastructure.

Primary Drivers

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

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

7.5

2050

8.0

Data source

flood Risk

6.5/10

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

Primary Drivers

  • ·Increased rainfall intensity
  • ·Rising river levels
  • ·Urban development reducing natural drainage

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

7.0

2050

7.5

Data source

coastal Risk

1.0/10

Coastal risks are minimal in Bassendean due to its distance from the coast. Sea level rise is not a direct threat.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Sea level rise
  • ·Storm surges

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

1.0

2050

1.0

Data source

bushfire Risk

3.0/10

Bushfire risk in Bassendean is relatively low due to its urbanized environment, but surrounding bushland areas pose a potential threat during extreme weather conditions.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Proximity to bushland
  • ·Dry vegetation
  • ·Extreme heat events

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

3.2

2050

3.5

Data source

What This Means for Property Owners

Insurance Outlook

Insurance premiums may increase due to flood risk.

Price Impact

Properties in flood-prone areas may experience price reductions.

Buyer Checklist

  • 1.Check flood maps
  • 2.Assess property's flood risk
  • 3.Consider heat mitigation measures
  • 4.Review insurance options

Local Climate Evidence

Flood Evidence

Nearest Waterway
Swan River
Elevation Range
5-15m
Flood Zone
Areas near the Swan River are prone to flooding.

Historical flood events have impacted properties near the Swan River.

View council flood map

Bushfire Evidence

Distance to Bushland
1-2km to nearby reserves
Planning Overlay
Some areas have bushfire overlays.
Bushfire Prone Area
Yes

Residents should maintain firebreaks and be aware of bushfire risks during summer.

Heat Evidence

Avg January Max Temp
32.5°C
Heat Stress Days/Year
5 days

Elderly residents are particularly vulnerable during heatwaves.

Coastal Evidence

Distance to Coast
15 km
Sea Level Rise Exposure
Low
Erosion Risk
Low

Historical Climate Events

2010
floodModerate

Heavy rainfall caused flooding in low-lying areas near the Swan River.

Source
2011
stormMinor

A severe storm caused minor damage to properties in Bassendean.

Source
2017
heatwaveModerate

A prolonged heatwave impacted vulnerable residents in Bassendean.

Source
2021
floodMinor

Localized flooding occurred after a period of heavy rainfall.

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)
bushfire3.03.2(+0.2)3.5(+0.5)
heat7.07.8(+0.8)8.5(+1.5)
coastal1.01.01.0

By 2030, Bassendean is projected to experience increased flooding and more frequent heatwaves. Bushfire risk will also slightly increase.

CSIRO Climate Projections

Adaptation Recommendations

Improve Drainage Infrastructure

Near-term

Upgrade drainage systems to handle increased rainfall and reduce flood risk.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Implement Heat Action Plan

Immediate

Develop a plan to protect vulnerable residents during heatwaves, including cooling centers and community outreach.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

Bushfire Risk Mitigation

Near-term

Maintain firebreaks and educate residents about bushfire preparedness.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

Community Awareness Programs

Long-term

Educate residents about climate change risks and adaptation measures.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

About Bassendean's Climate Risk Profile

Bassendean, located near the Swan River, is particularly vulnerable to flooding. Climate change is expected to increase rainfall intensity, leading to more frequent and severe flood events. The urban environment also contributes to the risk by reducing natural drainage.

Heatwaves are another significant concern for Bassendean. Rising average temperatures and more frequent heatwaves will impact vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and those with chronic health conditions. The urban heat island effect can further exacerbate these impacts.

Bushfire risk is relatively low in Bassendean due to its urbanized environment. However, surrounding bushland areas pose a potential threat during extreme weather conditions. It's important to maintain firebreaks and be prepared for bushfire season.

Coastal risks are minimal in Bassendean due to its distance from the coast. Sea level rise is not a direct threat to the suburb. However, the community should still be aware of the potential impacts of climate change on the broader region.

Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · DFES

Local Government Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main climate change risks in Bassendean?

The main risks are increased flooding due to heavier rainfall and more frequent heatwaves.

How can I prepare for heatwaves in Bassendean?

Stay hydrated, seek air-conditioned environments, and check on vulnerable neighbors.

What is the council doing to address climate change?

The council is implementing strategies to improve drainage and reduce the urban heat island effect.

Are there any bushfire risks in Bassendean?

While the risk is relatively low, surrounding bushland areas pose a potential threat during extreme weather conditions.

Where can I find more information about flood risks in Bassendean?

You can find flood maps and information on the Town of Bassendean website.

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