Climate Risk in Burswood, WA
Burswood faces moderate climate risks, primarily from flooding and heatwaves. Sea level rise and increased rainfall intensity are key drivers of these risks. Residents should prepare for more frequent and intense extreme weather events.
Overall Risk Score
Confidence: Medium
Hazard Breakdown
Climate Hazard Breakdown for Burswood
Flood
Burswood faces a moderate risk of flooding due to its proximity to the Swan River and low-lying areas. Riverine flooding and flash flooding from intense rainfall events are potential concerns.
Key drivers:
- ·Increased rainfall intensity
- ·Sea level rise
Bushfire
The risk of bushfire in Burswood is relatively low due to its urbanized environment and distance from large bushland areas. However, ember attack from distant fires remains a potential hazard.
Key drivers:
- ·Dry vegetation
- ·High temperatures
Heat
Burswood is susceptible to heatwaves, with increasing average temperatures and more frequent extreme heat days projected. This poses a risk to vulnerable populations.
Key drivers:
- ·Rising global temperatures
- ·Urban heat island effect
Coastal
Burswood faces a moderate risk from coastal hazards due to its proximity to the Swan River. Sea level rise and storm surges could lead to inundation of low-lying areas.
Key drivers:
- ·Sea level rise
- ·Increased storm intensity
Wind
Moderate wind risk — winter storms
Storm
Moderate storm risk — occasional severe thunderstorms
Social
Moderate social stability
Energy
Moderate energy costs — cooling demand in summer
In-Depth Climate Risk Guides for Burswood
Property buying guide with climate risk assessment
Flood zone mapping, historical events, and projections
BAL assessment, vegetation proximity, and fire history
Multi-hazard safety assessment to 2050
Severe weather, hail, and wind risk analysis
Extreme heat days, urban heat island, and cooling costs
Premium estimates and insurance availability
Climate-adjusted property investment analysis
Detailed Hazard Analysis
heat Risk
Burswood is susceptible to heatwaves, with increasing average temperatures and more frequent extreme heat days projected. This poses a risk to vulnerable populations.
Primary Drivers
- ·Rising global temperatures
- ·Urban heat island effect
Projections (RCP8.5)
2030
7.5
2050
8.0
flood Risk
Burswood faces a moderate risk of flooding due to its proximity to the Swan River and low-lying areas. Riverine flooding and flash flooding from intense rainfall events are potential concerns.
Primary Drivers
- ·Increased rainfall intensity
- ·Sea level rise
- ·Urban development
Projections (RCP8.5)
2030
7.0
2050
7.5
coastal Risk
Burswood faces a moderate risk from coastal hazards due to its proximity to the Swan River. Sea level rise and storm surges could lead to inundation of low-lying areas.
Primary Drivers
- ·Sea level rise
- ·Increased storm intensity
Projections (RCP8.5)
2030
4.5
2050
5.0
bushfire Risk
The risk of bushfire in Burswood is relatively low due to its urbanized environment and distance from large bushland areas. However, ember attack from distant fires remains a potential hazard.
Primary Drivers
- ·Dry vegetation
- ·High temperatures
- ·Strong winds
Projections (RCP8.5)
2030
3.2
2050
3.5
What This Means for Property Owners
Insurance Outlook
Insurance premiums may increase in the future due to increased flood and heatwave risks.
Price Impact
Properties in low-lying areas may experience some price impact due to flood risk.
Buyer Checklist
- 1.Check flood maps and insurance costs.
- 2.Assess property's vulnerability to heatwaves.
- 3.Consider potential impacts of sea level rise.
- 4.Inquire about local adaptation plans.
Local Climate Evidence
Flood Evidence
- Nearest Waterway
- Swan River
- Elevation Range
- 2-10 meters
- Flood Zone
- Areas near the Swan River are designated as flood zones.
Historical flood events have impacted Burswood, particularly areas close to the river. Drainage improvements are ongoing to mitigate future risks.
View council flood mapBushfire Evidence
- Distance to Bushland
- Approximately 5km to nearest significant bushland.
- Planning Overlay
- Not designated as a high bushfire risk area.
- Bushfire Prone Area
- No
While not a primary concern, residents should be aware of ember attack risks during bushfire season.
Heat Evidence
- Avg January Max Temp
- 31.5°C
- Heat Stress Days/Year
- 5 days
The number of days exceeding 35°C is projected to increase in the future.
Coastal Evidence
- Distance to Coast
- 12 km
- Sea Level Rise Exposure
- Low-lying areas near the Swan River are potentially exposed to sea level rise.
- Erosion Risk
- Minimal erosion risk.
Historical Climate Events
Heavy rainfall caused localized flooding in Burswood, particularly in low-lying areas near the Swan River.
SourceA severe storm brought strong winds and heavy rain to Burswood, causing minor damage to property.
SourceA prolonged heatwave affected Burswood, with temperatures exceeding 40°C for several consecutive days.
SourceHeavy rainfall led to flash flooding in some parts of Burswood, causing minor disruptions.
SourceClimate Outlook to 2050
Projections based on CSIRO and BOM climate modelling. Scenario: RCP8.5
| Hazard | Today | 2030 | 2050 |
|---|---|---|---|
| flood | 65 | 7.0(+0.5) | 7.5(+1.0) |
| bushfire | 30 | 3.2(+0.2) | 3.5(+0.5) |
| heat | 70 | 7.8(+0.8) | 8.5(+1.5) |
| coastal | 40 | 4.3(+0.3) | 4.8(+0.8) |
By 2030, Burswood is projected to experience more frequent and intense heatwaves, as well as an increased risk of flooding due to rising sea levels and more intense rainfall events. Bushfire risk will remain relatively stable, while coastal hazards will become more pronounced.
CSIRO Climate ProjectionsAdaptation Recommendations
Improve drainage infrastructure
Near-termUpgrade drainage systems to better manage increased rainfall and reduce the risk of flash flooding.
Est. cost: Medium
Learn moreDevelop a heatwave management plan
ImmediateImplement strategies to protect vulnerable populations during heatwaves, such as cooling centers and public awareness campaigns.
Est. cost: Low
Learn moreProtect coastal areas
Long-termImplement measures to protect coastal areas from sea level rise and storm surges, such as seawalls and beach nourishment.
Est. cost: High
Learn morePromote water conservation
Near-termEncourage residents and businesses to conserve water to reduce strain on water resources during periods of drought.
Est. cost: Low
Learn moreAbout Burswood's Climate Risk Profile
Burswood, located near the Swan River, is increasingly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. The suburb's low-lying areas make it susceptible to flooding from both riverine and flash flood events. Rising sea levels and more intense rainfall are expected to exacerbate these risks in the coming decades.
Heatwaves are another significant concern for Burswood. As average temperatures rise, the frequency and intensity of extreme heat days will increase, posing a threat to public health, particularly for vulnerable populations such as the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions. The urban heat island effect can further amplify these impacts.
While the risk of bushfire is relatively low compared to other areas in Western Australia, Burswood is not entirely immune. Ember attack from distant fires remains a potential hazard, and residents should take precautions to protect their properties.
Coastal hazards, including sea level rise and storm surges, also pose a threat to Burswood. Inundation of low-lying areas could damage infrastructure and disrupt daily life. Planning for adaptation measures is crucial to mitigate these risks and ensure the long-term resilience of the suburb.
Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · DFES
Local Government Resources
City of Perth
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main climate change risks for Burswood?
The main climate change risks for Burswood are flooding, heatwaves, and coastal hazards. Rising sea levels and more intense rainfall are expected to increase the risk of flooding, while rising temperatures will lead to more frequent and intense heatwaves. Coastal areas are vulnerable to sea level rise and storm surges.
How will climate change affect property values in Burswood?
Properties in low-lying areas may experience some price impact due to flood risk. However, the overall impact on property values will depend on the effectiveness of adaptation measures and the overall perception of climate risk.
What is the City of Perth doing to address climate change?
The City of Perth has developed a climate strategy that outlines a range of actions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to the impacts of climate change. These actions include improving energy efficiency, promoting renewable energy, and enhancing drainage infrastructure.
How can I prepare for heatwaves in Burswood?
To prepare for heatwaves, stay hydrated, avoid strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day, and seek out air-conditioned spaces. Check on vulnerable neighbors and family members, and be aware of the signs of heatstroke.
What should I do if my property is flooded?
If your property is flooded, prioritize your safety and the safety of your family. Turn off the electricity and gas, and move to higher ground. Contact emergency services if necessary, and do not return to your property until it is safe to do so.
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