Climate Risk in Cannington, Western Australia

Cannington, Western Australia· City of Canning· 6107
Medium Risk
Updated Mar 2026

Cannington faces moderate climate risks, primarily from flooding and heatwaves. The suburb's proximity to the Canning River and urban density contribute to these vulnerabilities. Residents should prepare for increasing temperatures and potential flood events.

Overall Risk Score

5.2/10
Medium

Confidence: Medium

Hazard Breakdown

Flood
6.5
Bushfire
3.0
Heat
6.0
Coastal
1.0

Detailed Hazard Analysis

heat Risk

6.0/10

Cannington experiences moderately high temperatures during summer, with potential for heatwaves. Urban heat island effect can amplify these temperatures.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Climate change
  • ·Urban heat island effect
  • ·Reduced green spaces

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

6.5

2050

7.0

Data source

flood Risk

6.5/10

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

Primary Drivers

  • ·Increased rainfall intensity
  • ·Urban development
  • ·Aging drainage infrastructure

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

7.0

2050

7.5

Data source

coastal Risk

1.0/10

Cannington is located inland and has a very low risk of coastal hazards such as sea level rise and coastal erosion.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Distance from the coast

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

1.0

2050

1.0

Data source

bushfire Risk

3.0/10

Bushfire risk in Cannington is relatively low due to the urbanized nature of the suburb. However, nearby bushland areas pose a potential threat.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Proximity to bushland
  • ·Dry vegetation
  • ·Wind patterns

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

3.2

2050

3.5

Data source

What This Means for Property Owners

Insurance Outlook

Insurance premiums may increase in areas prone to flooding.

Price Impact

Properties in flood-prone areas may experience a decrease in value.

Buyer Checklist

  • 1.Check flood maps and historical flood data.
  • 2.Assess the property's vulnerability to heatwaves.
  • 3.Consider the potential impact of climate change on property value.
  • 4.Review insurance options and premiums.

Local Climate Evidence

Flood Evidence

Nearest Waterway
Canning River
Elevation Range
5-15 meters
Flood Zone
Areas near the Canning River are designated as flood zones.

Historical flood events have impacted properties near the river. The council maintains flood maps and provides guidance on flood preparedness.

View council flood map

Bushfire Evidence

Distance to Bushland
Within 2km of significant bushland areas.
Planning Overlay
DFES Bushfire Prone Area Map
Bushfire Prone Area
Yes

Some parts of Cannington are designated as bushfire prone areas. Residents should maintain their properties and be aware of bushfire risks.

Heat Evidence

Avg January Max Temp
31.5°C
Heat Stress Days/Year
3 days

The suburb experiences several days above 35°C each summer. The urban heat island effect can increase temperatures by several degrees.

Coastal Evidence

Distance to Coast
12 km
Sea Level Rise Exposure
Not applicable
Erosion Risk
Not applicable

Historical Climate Events

2010
floodModerate

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

Source
2011
stormMinor

A severe storm caused minor damage to properties in Cannington.

Source
2017
heatwaveModerate

A prolonged heatwave resulted in increased hospital admissions and strain on infrastructure.

Source
2021
floodMinor

Localized flooding occurred after a period of intense 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)
heat6.06.8(+0.8)7.5(+1.5)
coastal1.01.01.0

By 2030, Cannington is projected to experience an increase in the frequency and intensity of heatwaves and flooding events. Rainfall patterns are expected to become more erratic, with longer dry periods interspersed with intense rainfall events. The urban heat island effect will continue to exacerbate heat stress.

CSIRO Climate Projections

Adaptation Recommendations

Improve Drainage Infrastructure

Near-term

Upgrade and expand drainage infrastructure to handle increased rainfall volumes and reduce the risk of flooding.

Est. cost: High

Learn more

Increase Green Spaces

Near-term

Plant more trees and create more green spaces to reduce the urban heat island effect and provide shade.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Develop a Heatwave Management Plan

Immediate

Implement a heatwave management plan to protect vulnerable residents during periods of extreme heat.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

Raise Awareness of Climate Risks

Long-term

Educate residents about the risks of climate change and provide guidance on how to prepare for and respond to extreme weather events.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

Retrofit Homes for Energy Efficiency

Long-term

Encourage homeowners to improve the energy efficiency of their homes to reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

About Cannington's Climate Risk Profile

Cannington, a suburb of Perth, Western Australia, is increasingly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. The primary concerns are related to flooding due to its location near the Canning River and the potential for increased rainfall intensity. Heatwaves are also a significant risk, exacerbated by the urban heat island effect.

The risk of flooding is driven by the combination of natural factors and urban development. The Canning River can overflow during periods of heavy rainfall, and the existing drainage infrastructure may not be sufficient to handle increased volumes of water. Climate change projections indicate that rainfall events are likely to become more intense, further increasing the risk of flooding.

Heatwaves pose a significant threat to the health and well-being of Cannington residents, particularly the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions. The urban heat island effect, caused by the concentration of buildings and paved surfaces, can amplify temperatures, making heatwaves even more severe. Reduced green spaces also contribute to this effect.

While the risk of bushfire is relatively low compared to other parts of Western Australia, it is still a concern due to the presence of nearby bushland areas. Coastal risks are minimal due to Cannington's inland location. Adaptation measures are needed to mitigate the impacts of climate change and protect the community.

Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · DFES

Local Government Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main climate change risks in Cannington?

The main climate change risks in Cannington are flooding, heatwaves, and bushfire. Flooding is a concern due to the suburb's proximity to the Canning River, while heatwaves are exacerbated by the urban heat island effect. Bushfire risk is relatively low but still present due to nearby bushland areas.

How is the City of Canning addressing climate change?

The City of Canning is developing and implementing climate change strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to the impacts of climate change. These strategies include improving energy efficiency, promoting sustainable transportation, and managing water resources.

What can I do to prepare for a flood in Cannington?

To prepare for a flood in Cannington, you should check flood maps and historical flood data, assess your property's vulnerability to flooding, and develop a flood plan. You should also consider purchasing flood insurance and taking steps to protect your property from flood damage.

How can I reduce my risk of heat stress during a heatwave?

To reduce your risk of heat stress during a heatwave, you should stay hydrated, avoid strenuous activity, and seek out air-conditioned environments. You should also check on vulnerable neighbors and family members and be aware of the signs of heat stress.

Where can I find more information about climate change in Cannington?

You can find more information about climate change in Cannington on the City of Canning website, the Bureau of Meteorology website, and the CSIRO website. You can also contact the City of Canning for more information about local climate change initiatives.

Is my property in Cannington likely to be affected by climate change?

Properties in low-lying areas near the Canning River are more likely to be affected by flooding. All properties in Cannington are likely to be affected by more frequent and intense heatwaves. Check with the City of Canning for specific risk assessments for your property.

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