Climate Risk in Dwellingup, Western Australia

Dwellingup, Western Australia· UNKNOWN
High Risk
Updated Mar 2026

Dwellingup faces significant risks from bushfires and moderate risks from flooding and heatwaves. Climate change is expected to exacerbate these risks, potentially impacting property values and community safety. Residents should prepare for more frequent and intense extreme weather events.

Overall Risk Score

7.2/10
High

Confidence: Medium

Hazard Breakdown

Flood
6.5
Bushfire
8.0
Heat
6.0
Coastal
2.0

Detailed Hazard Analysis

heat Risk

6.0/10

Dwellingup experiences moderately high temperatures during summer, with potential for heatwaves. Climate change is expected to increase the frequency and intensity of heat events.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Rising average temperatures
  • ·More frequent heatwaves
  • ·Urban heat island effect (limited in Dwellingup)

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

6.5

2050

7.0

Data source

flood Risk

6.5/10

Dwellingup faces a moderate risk of flooding, primarily from the Murray River and associated tributaries. Intense rainfall events can lead to riverine flooding, impacting low-lying areas and properties near waterways.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Increased rainfall intensity
  • ·Changes in land use
  • ·Aging infrastructure

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

7.0

2050

7.5

Data source

coastal Risk

2.0/10

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

Primary Drivers

  • ·Distance from the coast

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

2.0

2050

2.0

Data source

bushfire Risk

8.0/10

Dwellingup is located in a high bushfire risk area due to the surrounding forests. Dry summers and strong winds contribute to the potential for fast-moving and intense bushfires.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Drier conditions
  • ·Increased fuel load
  • ·More frequent extreme weather events

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

8.5

2050

9.0

Data source

What This Means for Property Owners

Insurance Outlook

Insurance premiums may increase due to the elevated risk of bushfires and flooding.

Price Impact

Properties in high-risk areas may experience a decrease in value due to climate change impacts.

Buyer Checklist

  • 1.Check bushfire risk assessment reports
  • 2.Review flood maps and insurance requirements
  • 3.Assess property's vulnerability to heatwaves
  • 4.Consider long-term climate change projections

Local Climate Evidence

Flood Evidence

Nearest Waterway
Murray River
Elevation Range
Approximately 250-350 meters above sea level
Flood Zone
Areas adjacent to the Murray River are designated as flood zones.

Historical flood events have impacted properties near the Murray River. Local authorities maintain flood maps and provide guidance on flood preparedness.

View council flood map

Bushfire Evidence

Distance to Bushland
Surrounded by state forest and bushland
Planning Overlay
Bushfire Prone Area Overlay
Bushfire Prone Area
Yes

Dwellingup is located within a designated bushfire-prone area. Residents are required to adhere to bushfire safety regulations and maintain firebreaks.

Heat Evidence

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

Dwellingup experiences hot summers, with average maximum temperatures in January exceeding 32 degrees Celsius. Heatwaves can pose a significant health risk to vulnerable populations.

Coastal Evidence

Distance to Coast
85 km
Sea Level Rise Exposure
Not applicable due to inland location
Erosion Risk
Not applicable due to inland location

Historical Climate Events

2015
bushfireModerate

A bushfire near Dwellingup caused property damage and required evacuations.

Source
2017
floodMinor

Heavy rainfall caused minor flooding in low-lying areas of Dwellingup.

Source
2019
heatwaveModerate

Dwellingup experienced a prolonged heatwave with temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius.

Source
2022
bushfireModerate

Bushfire impacted the area surrounding Dwellingup, requiring residents to be vigilant.

Source

Climate Outlook to 2050

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

HazardToday2030205020302050
flood6.56.7(+0.2)6.9(+0.4)6.8(+0.3)7.2(+0.7)
bushfire8.08.4(+0.4)8.7(+0.7)8.6(+0.6)9.4(+1.4)
heat6.06.3(+0.3)6.5(+0.5)6.4(+0.4)6.9(+0.9)
coastal2.02.02.02.02.0

Under a moderate emissions scenario, Dwellingup is projected to experience a slight increase in overall climate risk, primarily driven by increased bushfire and heatwave risks.

CSIRO Climate Projections

Adaptation Recommendations

Develop and implement a comprehensive bushfire management plan

Immediate

Create a community-based bushfire management plan that includes strategies for prevention, preparedness, and response. This plan should be regularly updated and communicated to all residents.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Improve flood resilience of infrastructure

Near-term

Upgrade drainage systems and infrastructure to better manage floodwaters. Implement measures to protect critical infrastructure from flooding.

Est. cost: High

Learn more

Implement heatwave early warning system

Near-term

Establish a heatwave early warning system to alert residents of impending heatwaves. Provide guidance on how to stay safe during extreme heat events.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

Promote water conservation measures

Long-term

Encourage residents to conserve water through education and incentives. Implement water-efficient landscaping practices and promote the use of rainwater harvesting systems.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

Strengthen community resilience

Immediate

Foster a strong sense of community and encourage residents to support each other during extreme weather events. Establish community emergency response teams and provide training on disaster preparedness.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

About Dwellingup's Climate Risk Profile

Dwellingup, nestled in the Darling Scarp, is particularly vulnerable to bushfires due to its location surrounded by dense forests. The dry summers and strong winds common in the region create ideal conditions for bushfires to spread rapidly. Climate change is projected to increase the frequency and intensity of these events, posing a growing threat to the community.

Flooding is another concern for Dwellingup, with the Murray River and its tributaries posing a risk to low-lying areas. Intense rainfall events can cause the river to overflow, inundating properties and disrupting infrastructure. Changes in land use and aging infrastructure may further exacerbate the risk of flooding in the future.

Heatwaves are also becoming more frequent and intense in Dwellingup, posing a health risk to vulnerable populations. Rising average temperatures and more frequent extreme heat events are expected to increase the demand for cooling and strain energy resources.

While Dwellingup is located inland and not directly exposed to coastal hazards, the broader impacts of climate change, such as disruptions to supply chains and increased migration, could indirectly affect the community. It is crucial for residents and local authorities to take proactive measures to mitigate these risks and adapt to the changing climate.

Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · DFES WA · Water Corporation WA

Local Government Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main climate change risks in Dwellingup?

Dwellingup faces significant risks from bushfires, flooding, and heatwaves. Climate change is expected to increase the frequency and intensity of these events.

How can I prepare my property for bushfires in Dwellingup?

Clear vegetation around your home, maintain firebreaks, and have a bushfire survival plan in place. Consider installing fire-resistant building materials.

What should I do during a flood in Dwellingup?

Move to higher ground, avoid driving through floodwaters, and follow the instructions of emergency services. Turn off electricity and gas if it is safe to do so.

How can I stay safe during a heatwave in Dwellingup?

Stay indoors in air-conditioned environments, drink plenty of water, and avoid strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day. Check on vulnerable neighbors and family members.

Where can I find more information about climate change impacts in Dwellingup?

Consult the Shire of Murray website, the Department of Fire and Emergency Services, and the Bureau of Meteorology for the latest information and guidance.

Is it safe to drink tap water after a flood?

It is recommended to boil tap water before drinking after a flood event, or use bottled water, as floodwaters can contaminate the water supply.

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