Climate Risk in East Perth, WA

East Perth, Western Australia· City of Perth· 6004
Medium Risk
Updated Mar 2026

East Perth faces moderate climate risks, primarily related to flooding, heatwaves, and coastal hazards. Climate change is expected to exacerbate these risks, potentially impacting infrastructure and vulnerable populations. Residents should prepare for more frequent and intense extreme weather events.

Overall Risk Score

5.5/10
Medium

Confidence: Medium

Hazard Breakdown

Flood
6.0
Bushfire
3.0
Heat
7.0
Coastal
6.0

Detailed Hazard Analysis

heat Risk

7.0/10

East Perth is susceptible to heatwaves, particularly during the summer months. Climate change is projected to increase the frequency and intensity of heatwaves, posing a risk to vulnerable populations.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Rising temperatures
  • ·Urban heat island effect
  • ·Reduced vegetation cover

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

7.5

2050

8.0

Data source

flood Risk

6.0/10

East Perth faces a moderate risk of flooding due to its proximity to the Swan River and low-lying areas. Climate change is expected to increase rainfall intensity, potentially leading to more frequent and severe flood events.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Increased rainfall intensity
  • ·Sea level rise
  • ·Urban development

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

6.5

2050

7.0

Data source

coastal Risk

6.0/10

East Perth faces a moderate risk from coastal hazards due to its location near the Swan River. Sea level rise and storm surges could lead to increased inundation and erosion.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Sea level rise
  • ·Storm surges
  • ·Erosion

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

6.5

2050

7.0

Data source

bushfire Risk

3.0/10

The risk of bushfire in East Perth is relatively low due to its urban environment and distance from large areas of bushland. However, sparks from nearby bushfires can travel.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Dry vegetation
  • ·High temperatures
  • ·Strong winds

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

3.2

2050

3.5

Data source

What This Means for Property Owners

Insurance Outlook

Insurance premiums may increase in the future due to increased flood and storm risks.

Price Impact

Properties in low-lying areas may experience a decrease in value due to flood risk.

Buyer Checklist

  • 1.Check flood maps and insurance costs.
  • 2.Assess the property's vulnerability to heatwaves.
  • 3.Consider the potential impacts of sea level rise.
  • 4.Inquire about the council's climate adaptation plans.

Local Climate Evidence

Flood Evidence

Nearest Waterway
Swan River
Elevation Range
2-10 meters
Flood Zone
Areas near the Swan River are prone to flooding.

Historical flood events have impacted East Perth, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall.

View council flood map

Bushfire Evidence

Distance to Bushland
5-10 km to nearest significant bushland.
Planning Overlay
DFES Bushfire Prone Areas Map
Bushfire Prone Area
No

While not directly in a high-risk area, East Perth can be affected by smoke and embers from distant bushfires.

Heat Evidence

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

The urban environment of East Perth contributes to the urban heat island effect, increasing temperatures during heatwaves.

Coastal Evidence

Distance to Coast
12 km
Sea Level Rise Exposure
Low-lying areas near the Swan River are vulnerable to sea level rise.
Erosion Risk
Minimal erosion risk in most areas, but some riverfront locations may be susceptible.

Historical Climate Events

2010
floodModerate

Heavy rainfall caused flooding in low-lying areas of East Perth, impacting some businesses and residences.

Source
2011
heatwaveModerate

A prolonged heatwave in Perth led to increased hospital admissions and strain on infrastructure.

Source
2015
stormMinor

A severe storm caused minor damage to property in East Perth, including fallen trees and power outages.

Source
2021
floodMinor

Localized flooding occurred in East Perth due to intense rainfall, affecting some roads and businesses.

Source

Climate Outlook to 2050

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

HazardToday2030205020302050
flood6.06.5(+0.5)7.0(+1.0)6.7(+0.7)7.5(+1.5)
bushfire3.03.1(+0.1)3.2(+0.2)3.2(+0.2)3.4(+0.4)
heat7.07.4(+0.4)7.8(+0.8)7.6(+0.6)8.2(+1.2)
coastal6.06.3(+0.3)6.6(+0.6)6.5(+0.5)7.0(+1.0)

Under a moderate emissions scenario, East Perth is projected to experience a slight increase in overall climate risk by 2030, with notable increases in flood and heatwave risks.

CSIRO Climate Projections

Adaptation Recommendations

Improve Drainage Infrastructure

Near-term

Upgrade drainage systems to handle increased rainfall intensity and reduce flood risk.

Est. cost: High

Learn more

Increase Vegetation Cover

Near-term

Plant more trees and vegetation to reduce the urban heat island effect and provide shade.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Develop Emergency Preparedness Plans

Immediate

Create community-based emergency plans to prepare for extreme weather events, including heatwaves and floods.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

Promote Water Conservation

Long-term

Implement water conservation measures to reduce water demand and ensure water security during droughts.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Raise Awareness of Climate Risks

Immediate

Educate residents and businesses about the risks of climate change and how to adapt to these changes.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

About East Perth's Climate Risk Profile

East Perth, located on the Swan River, is vulnerable to several climate change impacts. The suburb's low-lying areas make it susceptible to flooding from increased rainfall intensity and sea level rise. Heatwaves are also a significant concern, with rising temperatures and the urban heat island effect posing risks to public health.

Bushfire risk is relatively low due to the urban environment, but sparks from nearby bushfires can travel. Coastal hazards, such as storm surges and erosion, could also impact East Perth, particularly along the riverfront.

Climate change projections indicate that these risks will intensify in the coming decades. Residents and businesses should take steps to adapt to these changes, such as improving drainage infrastructure, increasing vegetation cover, and developing emergency preparedness plans.

The City of Perth is working to address climate change through various initiatives, including reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainable development. However, individual action is also essential to mitigate the impacts of climate change and build a more resilient community.

Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · DFES

Local Government Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main climate change risks in East Perth?

The main climate change risks in East Perth are flooding, heatwaves, and coastal hazards. These risks are expected to increase in the future due to climate change.

How will climate change affect property values in East Perth?

Properties in low-lying areas may experience a decrease in value due to flood risk. However, properties in areas less vulnerable to climate change may retain their value.

What is the City of Perth doing to address climate change?

The City of Perth is implementing various initiatives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote sustainable development. These initiatives include improving energy efficiency, promoting renewable energy, and increasing vegetation cover.

How can I prepare for heatwaves in East Perth?

To prepare for heatwaves, stay hydrated, avoid strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day, and seek shelter in air-conditioned buildings. Check on vulnerable neighbors and family members.

What should I do if my property is flooded in East Perth?

If your property is flooded, evacuate to a safe location and contact emergency services. Do not enter floodwaters, as they may be contaminated. Contact your insurance company to file a claim.

Where can I find more information about climate change in East Perth?

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

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