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PROPERTY ANALYTICS

Climate Risk Assessment for Donnybrook, WA

Donnybrook, Western Australia· UNKNOWN
Medium Risk
Updated Mar 2026

Donnybrook faces moderate climate risks, primarily from flooding and bushfires. The risk of heatwaves is also increasing. Coastal risks are low due to its inland location.

Overall Risk Score

5.8/10
Medium

Confidence: Medium

Hazard Breakdown

Flood
6.5
Bushfire
7.0
Heat
5.0
Coastal
2.0

Detailed Hazard Analysis

heat Risk

5.0/10

Donnybrook is likely to experience more frequent and intense heatwaves. This will increase the risk of heat stress, particularly for vulnerable populations.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Increased temperatures
  • ·More frequent heatwaves
  • ·Urban heat island effect

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

5.5

2050

6.0

Data source

flood Risk

6.5/10

Donnybrook faces a moderate risk of flooding, primarily from the Preston River. Increased rainfall intensity could exacerbate this risk.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Increased rainfall intensity
  • ·Riverine flooding
  • ·Urban development

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

7.0

2050

7.5

Data source

coastal Risk

2.0/10

Donnybrook is located inland and has a low risk from coastal hazards such as sea level rise and coastal erosion.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Distance from coast

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

2.0

2050

2.0

Data source

bushfire Risk

7.0/10

The area surrounding Donnybrook has a high bushfire risk due to the presence of significant bushland. Drier conditions and higher temperatures are expected to increase this risk.

Primary Drivers

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

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

7.5

2050

8.0

Data source

What This Means for Property Owners

Insurance Outlook

Insurance premiums may increase due to flood and bushfire risks.

Price Impact

Properties in flood-prone areas may experience price reductions.

Buyer Checklist

  • 1.Check flood maps and insurance costs.
  • 2.Assess bushfire risk and prepare a bushfire plan.
  • 3.Consider the impact of heatwaves on property value.
  • 4.Review council planning regulations related to climate change.

Local Climate Evidence

Flood Evidence

Nearest Waterway
Preston River
Elevation Range
100-150m
Flood Zone
Areas near the Preston River are prone to flooding.

Historical flood events have impacted properties near the river.

View council flood map

Bushfire Evidence

Distance to Bushland
Adjacent to state forest
Planning Overlay
DFES Bushfire Prone Area Map
Bushfire Prone Area
Yes

The area is designated as bushfire prone due to the surrounding vegetation.

Heat Evidence

Avg January Max Temp
32°C
Heat Stress Days/Year
3 days

Heatwaves are becoming more frequent in the region.

Coastal Evidence

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

Historical Climate Events

2011
floodModerate

Heavy rainfall caused the Preston River to flood, impacting properties near the river.

Source
2016
bushfireModerate

A bushfire near Donnybrook threatened properties and required emergency response.

Source
2019
heatwaveModerate

A prolonged heatwave resulted in heat stress and health concerns for vulnerable populations.

Source
2022
floodMinor

Minor flooding occurred along the Preston River 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)
bushfire7.07.5(+0.5)8.0(+1.0)
heat5.05.3(+0.3)5.5(+0.5)
coastal2.02.02.0

By 2030, Donnybrook is projected to experience a moderate increase in flood and bushfire risk due to climate change. Heatwave frequency and intensity are also expected to increase.

CSIRO Climate Projections

Adaptation Recommendations

Improve Flood Defenses

Near-term

Invest in infrastructure to mitigate flood risk, such as levees and improved drainage systems.

Est. cost: High

Learn more

Bushfire Preparedness

Immediate

Implement community education programs and support residents in preparing their properties for bushfires.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Heatwave Action Plan

Near-term

Develop a heatwave action plan to protect vulnerable populations during extreme heat events.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

Water Resource Management

Long-term

Implement strategies to conserve water and ensure a sustainable water supply in the face of climate change.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

About Donnybrook's Climate Risk Profile

Donnybrook, located in Western Australia, is projected to experience increasing climate-related risks in the coming decades. The primary concerns are related to flooding from the Preston River and the increasing threat of bushfires due to the surrounding bushland.

Climate change models predict an increase in rainfall intensity, which will likely exacerbate the risk of flooding in Donnybrook. The Preston River, which runs through the town, could overflow more frequently, impacting residential and commercial properties. Additionally, the risk of flash flooding may increase due to more intense storm events.

The bushfire risk is also expected to rise due to hotter, drier conditions. The surrounding bushland provides ample fuel for fires, and the increasing frequency of extreme heat events will create conditions conducive to bushfires. Residents should be prepared for longer and more intense bushfire seasons.

Heatwaves are also projected to become more frequent and intense, posing a risk to vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and those with chronic health conditions. It is important to take precautions during heatwaves, such as staying hydrated and seeking air-conditioned environments.

While Donnybrook is located inland and is not directly exposed to coastal hazards, the broader impacts of climate change, such as disruptions to agriculture and water resources, could still affect the region.

Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · DFES

Local Government Resources

Shire of Donnybrook-Balingup

Climate StrategyFlood MapsEmergency Services

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main climate change risks for Donnybrook?

The main climate change risks for Donnybrook are increased flooding from the Preston River, more frequent and intense bushfires, and more severe heatwaves.

How will climate change affect property values in Donnybrook?

Properties in flood-prone areas may experience price reductions. Increased bushfire risk could also impact property values in some areas.

What is the council doing to address climate change?

The Shire of Donnybrook-Balingup is developing strategies to mitigate and adapt to climate change, including improving flood defenses and promoting bushfire preparedness.

How can I prepare my property for bushfires?

You can prepare your property for bushfires by clearing vegetation around your home, installing a fire sprinkler system, and developing a bushfire survival plan.

What should I do during a heatwave?

During a heatwave, you should stay hydrated, seek air-conditioned environments, and avoid strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day.

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