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PROPERTY ANALYTICS

Climate Risk in Gnowangerup, Western Australia

Gnowangerup, Western Australia· Shire of Gnowangerup· 6335
Medium Risk
Updated Mar 2026

Gnowangerup faces moderate climate risks, primarily from bushfires and heatwaves. Flooding is also a concern. Residents should prepare for more frequent extreme weather events.

Overall Risk Score

5.2/10
Medium

Confidence: Medium

Hazard Breakdown

Flood
4.5
Bushfire
6.8
Heat
5.5
Coastal
0.1

Detailed Hazard Analysis

heat Risk

5.5/10

Gnowangerup is likely to experience more frequent and intense heatwaves. This poses a risk to vulnerable populations and infrastructure.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Rising average temperatures
  • ·Increased frequency of heatwaves

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

5.8

2050

6.2

Data source

flood Risk

4.5/10

Gnowangerup faces a moderate risk of flooding, primarily from heavy rainfall events and river overflow. The risk is projected to increase slightly due to changing rainfall patterns.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Increased rainfall intensity
  • ·River overflow
  • ·Inadequate drainage

Projections (RCP4.5)

2030

4.8

2050

5.1

Data source

coastal Risk

0.1/10

Gnowangerup is located inland and does not face any direct coastal risks.

Projections (RCP2.6)

2030

0.1

2050

0.1

Data source

bushfire Risk

6.8/10

The area surrounding Gnowangerup is prone to bushfires, especially during the dry summer months. Increased temperatures and drier conditions are expected to exacerbate the risk.

Primary Drivers

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

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

7.2

2050

7.5

Data source

What This Means for Property Owners

Insurance Outlook

Insurance premiums may increase due to heightened climate risks.

Price Impact

Properties in high-risk areas may experience a decrease in value.

Buyer Checklist

  • 1.Check flood maps and bushfire prone area designations.
  • 2.Assess property resilience to heatwaves.
  • 3.Review insurance coverage and potential premium increases.
  • 4.Consider water conservation measures.

Local Climate Evidence

Flood Evidence

Nearest Waterway
Gnowangerup Creek
Elevation Range
240-280m
Flood Zone
Areas near Gnowangerup Creek are susceptible to flooding.

Historical flood events have impacted properties near the creek.

View council flood map

Bushfire Evidence

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

The area is designated as bushfire prone due to vegetation density and climate conditions.

Heat Evidence

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

Heatwaves are becoming more frequent and intense in the region.

Coastal Evidence

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

Historical Climate Events

2003
bushfireModerate

A bushfire near Gnowangerup caused property damage and road closures.

Source
2010
floodModerate

Heavy rainfall caused flooding in low-lying areas of Gnowangerup.

Source
2019
heatwaveModerate

A prolonged heatwave affected Gnowangerup, with temperatures exceeding 40°C for several days.

Source
2022
floodMinor

Localized flooding occurred after a period of intense rainfall.

Source

Climate Outlook to 2050

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

HazardToday20302050
flood4.54.7(+0.2)4.9(+0.4)
bushfire6.87.2(+0.4)7.5(+0.7)
heat5.55.8(+0.3)6.3(+0.8)
coastal0.10.10.1

By 2030, Gnowangerup is projected to experience a slight increase in overall climate risk, with notable increases in bushfire and heatwave risks. Flooding risk may also increase slightly due to changing rainfall patterns.

CSIRO Climate Projections

Adaptation Recommendations

Improve Bushfire Preparedness

Immediate

Implement bushfire mitigation measures, such as vegetation management and firebreaks, around properties and infrastructure.

Est. cost: Low to Medium

Learn more

Enhance Heatwave Resilience

Near-term

Develop a heatwave management plan to protect vulnerable populations, including providing cooling centers and public awareness campaigns.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

Upgrade Drainage Infrastructure

Near-term

Improve drainage systems to reduce the risk of flooding during heavy rainfall events.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Promote Water Conservation

Long-term

Implement water conservation measures to ensure water security during periods of drought and heatwaves.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

About Gnowangerup's Climate Risk Profile

Gnowangerup, located in the Great Southern region of Western Australia, is increasingly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. The primary risks include bushfires, heatwaves, and flooding. Changes in rainfall patterns and rising temperatures are expected to exacerbate these risks in the coming decades.

Bushfire risk is a significant concern due to the surrounding dry vegetation and hot, dry summers. The frequency and intensity of heatwaves are also projected to increase, posing health risks to vulnerable populations. Flooding can occur due to heavy rainfall events and river overflow, particularly in low-lying areas.

While Gnowangerup is not directly exposed to coastal hazards, the broader region may experience indirect impacts from sea-level rise and coastal erosion. It is crucial for residents and local authorities to implement adaptation measures to mitigate these risks.

Preparing for these changes involves a combination of individual actions, community initiatives, and government policies. This includes improving building resilience, managing vegetation, enhancing emergency response capabilities, and promoting water conservation.

Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · DFES

Local Government Resources

Shire of Gnowangerup

Climate StrategyFlood MapsEmergency Services

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main climate change risks in Gnowangerup?

The main climate change risks in Gnowangerup are bushfires, heatwaves, and flooding. These risks are expected to increase in the coming decades due to rising temperatures and changing rainfall patterns.

How can I prepare my property for bushfires?

You can prepare your property for bushfires by clearing vegetation around your home, installing firebreaks, and having a bushfire survival plan.

What should I do during a heatwave?

During a heatwave, stay indoors in a cool place, drink plenty of water, and avoid strenuous activities. Check on vulnerable neighbors and family members.

Where can I find information about flood risks in Gnowangerup?

You can find information about flood risks in Gnowangerup on the Shire of Gnowangerup website or by contacting the council directly.

What is the Shire of Gnowangerup doing to address climate change?

The Shire of Gnowangerup is developing and implementing strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to the impacts of climate change. This includes promoting energy efficiency, water conservation, and sustainable land management practices.

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