Climate Risk in Denmark, Western Australia

Denmark, Western Australia· Shire of Denmark· 6333
Medium Risk
Updated Mar 2026

Denmark, WA, faces a medium overall climate risk. The most significant threats are coastal hazards and bushfires, with increasing risks from flooding and heatwaves. Residents should prepare for more frequent extreme weather events.

Overall Risk Score

5.2/10
Medium

Confidence: Medium

Hazard Breakdown

Flood
4.0
Bushfire
6.0
Heat
3.0
Coastal
8.0

Detailed Hazard Analysis

heat Risk

3.0/10

Denmark experiences a relatively low risk from heatwaves compared to other regions in WA, but increasing average temperatures will lead to more frequent and intense heat events.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Increasing average temperatures
  • ·More frequent heatwaves

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

3.5

2050

4.5

Data source

flood Risk

4.0/10

Denmark faces a moderate risk of flooding, primarily from the Denmark River and associated waterways. Increased rainfall intensity could exacerbate these risks.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Increased rainfall intensity
  • ·Sea level rise impacting river flow
  • ·Urban development increasing runoff

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

4.5

2050

5.5

Data source

coastal Risk

8.0/10

Denmark faces a high risk from coastal hazards due to its location on the coast. Sea level rise and increased storm surge will exacerbate coastal erosion and inundation.

Primary Drivers

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

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

8.5

2050

9.5

Data source

bushfire Risk

6.0/10

Denmark has a high bushfire risk due to its proximity to extensive bushland. Drier conditions and higher temperatures are expected to increase the frequency and intensity of bushfires.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Drier conditions
  • ·Increased temperatures
  • ·Fuel load accumulation

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

6.5

2050

7.5

Data source

What This Means for Property Owners

Insurance Outlook

Insurance premiums are likely to increase due to climate risks.

Price Impact

Properties in high-risk areas may experience price decreases.

Buyer Checklist

  • 1.Check flood maps and bushfire prone area designations.
  • 2.Assess coastal erosion risk.
  • 3.Inquire about insurance costs.
  • 4.Consider energy efficiency measures.

Local Climate Evidence

Flood Evidence

Nearest Waterway
Denmark River
Elevation Range
0-100m
Flood Zone
Areas adjacent to the Denmark River are prone to flooding.

The Denmark River has a history of flooding, and the Shire of Denmark is working to mitigate these risks.

View council flood map

Bushfire Evidence

Distance to Bushland
Adjacent to extensive bushland
Planning Overlay
DFES Bushfire Prone Areas Map
Bushfire Prone Area
Yes

Much of the Denmark area is designated as bushfire prone.

Heat Evidence

Avg January Max Temp
27°C
Heat Stress Days/Year
1 days

Denmark experiences milder summers compared to other parts of WA, but heatwaves are still a concern.

Coastal Evidence

Distance to Coast
0.5 km
Sea Level Rise Exposure
Significant exposure to sea level rise
Erosion Risk
High erosion risk along exposed coastlines

Historical Climate Events

2013
floodModerate

Heavy rainfall caused flooding along the Denmark River, impacting low-lying areas.

Source
2015
bushfireModerate

A bushfire near Denmark threatened properties and required emergency response.

Source
2018
stormModerate

A severe storm caused coastal erosion and damage to infrastructure.

Source
2022
floodMinor

Localized flooding occurred after a period of heavy rainfall.

Source

Climate Outlook to 2050

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

HazardToday2030205020302050
flood4.04.2(+0.2)4.4(+0.4)4.3(+0.3)4.6(+0.6)
bushfire6.06.4(+0.4)6.8(+0.8)6.6(+0.6)7.2(+1.2)
heat3.03.1(+0.1)3.3(+0.3)3.2(+0.2)3.5(+0.5)
coastal8.08.5(+0.5)9.0(+1.0)8.7(+0.7)9.5(+1.5)

By 2030, Denmark is projected to experience a slight increase in overall climate risk, with the most significant increases in coastal hazards and bushfire risk.

CSIRO Climate Projections

Adaptation Recommendations

Coastal Protection Measures

Immediate

Implement coastal protection measures such as seawalls and dune stabilization to reduce erosion and inundation risks.

Est. cost: High

Learn more

Bushfire Risk Reduction

Immediate

Undertake fuel reduction burns and implement bushfire management plans to reduce the risk of bushfires.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Flood Mitigation

Near-term

Improve drainage infrastructure and implement flood management plans to reduce the risk of flooding.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Heatwave Preparedness

Near-term

Develop heatwave preparedness plans and provide support for vulnerable populations during heat events.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

Community Education

Long-term

Educate the community about climate risks and adaptation measures.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

About Denmark's Climate Risk Profile

Denmark, located on the south coast of Western Australia, is a region known for its natural beauty and biodiversity. However, it is increasingly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.

The primary risks facing Denmark are coastal erosion and inundation due to sea level rise and increased storm surge. The town's coastal location makes it particularly susceptible to these hazards, which could damage infrastructure and property.

Bushfire risk is also a major concern, with the surrounding bushland providing ample fuel for fires. Drier conditions and higher temperatures are expected to increase the frequency and intensity of bushfires, posing a threat to lives and property.

Flooding is another risk, particularly along the Denmark River and its tributaries. Increased rainfall intensity could lead to more frequent and severe flooding events, impacting homes and businesses.

While heatwaves are less of a concern than in other parts of WA, increasing average temperatures will still lead to more frequent and intense heat events, posing a risk to vulnerable populations.

Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · DFES · DPaW · Shire of Denmark

Local Government Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main climate change risks in Denmark?

The main climate change risks in Denmark are coastal erosion and inundation, bushfires, and flooding. Increasing average temperatures and more frequent heatwaves are also a concern.

How is the Shire of Denmark preparing for climate change?

The Shire of Denmark is developing climate adaptation plans and implementing measures to reduce the risks from coastal hazards, bushfires, and flooding.

What can I do to protect my property from bushfires?

You can reduce the risk of bushfires by clearing vegetation around your home, maintaining your property, and having a bushfire survival plan.

How can I prepare for a flood?

You can prepare for a flood by knowing your flood risk, having an emergency kit, and developing a flood plan.

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

You can find more information about climate change in Denmark on the Shire of Denmark website, the Department of Fire and Emergency Services website, and the Bureau of Meteorology website.

Will sea levels affect my property in Denmark?

Depending on your property's proximity to the coast and elevation, sea level rise could pose a risk. Check coastal hazard maps and consider potential impacts when making property decisions.

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