Climate Risk in Kenwick, WA

Kenwick, Western Australia· UNKNOWN
Medium Risk
Updated Mar 2026

Kenwick faces moderate risks from flooding and heatwaves, with bushfire risk also a concern. Climate change is expected to exacerbate these risks, particularly increasing the intensity of rainfall and the frequency of extreme heat events. Residents should prepare for more frequent and intense climate-related events.

Overall Risk Score

5.2/10
Medium

Confidence: Medium

Hazard Breakdown

Flood
6.0
Bushfire
4.0
Heat
7.0
Coastal
1.0

Detailed Hazard Analysis

heat Risk

7.0/10

Kenwick is likely to experience more frequent and intense heatwaves. Higher average temperatures and more extreme heat events can pose health risks, especially for vulnerable populations. Climate change is driving these increases in heat.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Rising average temperatures
  • ·Increased frequency of heatwaves
  • ·Urban heat island effect

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

7.5

2050

8.0

Data source

flood Risk

6.0/10

Kenwick faces a moderate risk of flooding. This is primarily due to its proximity to waterways and low-lying areas. Climate change is expected to increase rainfall intensity, potentially worsening flood events.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Increased rainfall intensity
  • ·Proximity to waterways
  • ·Low-lying areas

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

6.5

2050

7.0

Data source

coastal Risk

1.0/10

Kenwick is not directly exposed to coastal hazards. Its distance from the coast means that sea level rise and coastal erosion pose minimal direct risk.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Distance from the coast

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

1.0

2050

1.0

Data source

bushfire Risk

4.0/10

Kenwick has a moderate bushfire risk. The presence of nearby bushland increases the potential for bushfires, especially during dry and windy conditions. Climate change is projected to increase the frequency and severity of bushfire weather.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Proximity to bushland
  • ·Dry conditions
  • ·Increased frequency of extreme weather

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

4.5

2050

5.0

Data source

What This Means for Property Owners

Insurance Outlook

Insurance premiums may increase due to increased flood and bushfire risk.

Price Impact

Properties in flood-prone areas may experience a decrease in value.

Buyer Checklist

  • 1.Check flood maps and insurance costs.
  • 2.Assess bushfire risk and property maintenance requirements.
  • 3.Consider energy efficiency upgrades to mitigate heat impacts.

Local Climate Evidence

Flood Evidence

Nearest Waterway
Swan River
Elevation Range
10-20 meters
Flood Zone
Low-lying areas near the Swan River

Historical flood data indicates that properties near the Swan River are most vulnerable.

View council flood map

Bushfire Evidence

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

Properties bordering the state forest are at higher risk during bushfire season.

Heat Evidence

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

The number of days exceeding 35°C is projected to increase in the coming years.

Coastal Evidence

Distance to Coast
20 km
Sea Level Rise Exposure
Not directly exposed
Erosion Risk
Not applicable

Historical Climate Events

2010
floodModerate

Heavy rainfall caused flooding in low-lying areas near the Swan River.

Source
2011
bushfireMinor

A bushfire near the state forest threatened properties in Kenwick.

Source
2017
heatwaveModerate

A prolonged heatwave resulted in increased hospital admissions for heat-related illnesses.

Source
2022
floodModerate

Significant rainfall led to localized flooding, impacting several residential areas.

Source

Climate Outlook to 2050

Projections based on CSIRO and BOM climate modelling. Scenario: RCP8.5

HazardToday20302050
flood6.06.5(+0.5)7.0(+1.0)
bushfire4.04.3(+0.3)4.5(+0.5)
heat7.07.7(+0.7)8.2(+1.2)
coastal1.01.01.0

By 2030, Kenwick is projected to experience a notable increase in heatwave frequency and intensity, along with a heightened risk of flooding due to more intense rainfall events. Bushfire risk will also slightly increase. Coastal risks remain minimal.

CSIRO Climate Projections

Adaptation Recommendations

Improve stormwater drainage

Near-term

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

Est. cost: High

Learn more

Implement bushfire management plan

Near-term

Develop and implement a comprehensive bushfire management plan, including vegetation management and community education.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Promote energy efficiency

Immediate

Encourage energy efficiency measures in homes and businesses to reduce the urban heat island effect and lower energy consumption during heatwaves.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

Establish community cooling centers

Near-term

Create designated cooling centers where residents can seek relief during extreme heat events.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

Enhance flood warning systems

Near-term

Improve flood warning systems to provide timely alerts to residents in flood-prone areas.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

About Kenwick's Climate Risk Profile

Kenwick, located in Western Australia, is subject to a range of climate-related risks that are projected to intensify in the coming decades. The suburb's proximity to waterways makes it vulnerable to flooding, and the increasing intensity of rainfall due to climate change is expected to worsen this risk. Residents should be aware of flood warnings and take appropriate precautions.

Bushfire risk is also a concern for Kenwick, given the presence of nearby bushland. Hot, dry conditions can increase the likelihood of bushfires, and climate change is projected to increase the frequency and severity of bushfire weather. Residents should maintain their properties and be prepared to evacuate if necessary.

Heatwaves are another significant risk for Kenwick. Higher average temperatures and more frequent extreme heat events can pose health risks, especially for vulnerable populations. Residents should stay hydrated, seek air-conditioned environments, and check on elderly or ill neighbors during heatwaves.

While Kenwick is not directly exposed to coastal hazards, the broader impacts of climate change, such as disruptions to supply chains and increased insurance costs, could still affect the suburb. It is important for residents and businesses to adapt to these changing conditions and take steps to reduce their carbon footprint.

Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · DFES

Local Government Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main climate risks facing Kenwick?

Kenwick faces risks from flooding, bushfires, and heatwaves, which are expected to worsen with climate change.

How will climate change affect property values in Kenwick?

Properties in flood-prone areas may experience a decrease in value, while increased insurance costs could affect all properties.

What can I do to prepare for heatwaves in Kenwick?

Stay hydrated, seek air-conditioned environments, and check on elderly or ill neighbors.

Where can I find information about flood risks in Kenwick?

You can find flood maps and information on the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation website.

How can I protect my property from bushfires in Kenwick?

Maintain your property, clear vegetation, and be prepared to evacuate if necessary. Refer to the DFES website for guidance.

Is Kenwick considered a bushfire prone area?

Yes, parts of Kenwick adjacent to bushland are designated as bushfire prone areas.

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