Climate Risk in Peelhurst, Western Australia

Peelhurst, Western Australia
Medium Risk
Updated Mar 2026

Peelhurst is a suburb in Western Australia that faces moderate climate risks. The primary concerns are bushfire and heatwave risks, with increasing flood risk due to climate change. Coastal risks are minimal due to its inland location.

Overall Risk Score

52/100
Medium

Confidence: Medium

Hazard Breakdown

Flood
4.0
Bushfire
6.0
Heat
5.0
Coastal
1.0

Climate Hazard Breakdown for Peelhurst

increasing

Flood

40/100

Peelhurst faces a moderate risk of flooding, primarily from heavy rainfall events and potential riverine flooding. Low-lying areas are particularly vulnerable.

Key drivers:

  • ·Increased rainfall intensity
  • ·Urban development
stable

Bushfire

60/100

The risk of bushfires in Peelhurst is relatively high due to the proximity of bushland and dry vegetation. Hot, dry summers increase the likelihood of fire ignition and spread.

Key drivers:

  • ·Dry vegetation
  • ·Hot summers
increasing

Heat

50/100

Peelhurst experiences moderately high temperatures during summer, with potential for heatwaves. Vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and those with chronic illnesses, are at greater risk.

Key drivers:

  • ·Climate change
  • ·Urban heat island effect
stable

Coastal

10/100

Coastal risk is low in Peelhurst due to its inland location. Sea level rise and coastal erosion are not significant concerns.

Key drivers:

  • ·Distance from coast
stable

Wind

32/100

Moderate wind risk — winter storms

stable

Storm

28/100

Moderate storm risk — occasional severe thunderstorms

stable

Social

21/100

Moderate social stability

increasing

Energy

39/100

Moderate energy costs — cooling demand in summer

In-Depth Climate Risk Guides for Peelhurst

Detailed Hazard Analysis

heat Risk

50/100

Peelhurst experiences moderately high temperatures during summer, with potential for heatwaves. Vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and those with chronic illnesses, are at greater risk.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Climate change
  • ·Urban heat island effect

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

5.5

2050

6.5

Data source

flood Risk

40/100

Peelhurst faces a moderate risk of flooding, primarily from heavy rainfall events and potential riverine flooding. Low-lying areas are particularly vulnerable.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Increased rainfall intensity
  • ·Urban development
  • ·Climate change

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

4.5

2050

5.5

Data source

coastal Risk

10/100

Coastal risk is low in Peelhurst due to its inland location. Sea level rise and coastal erosion are not significant concerns.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Distance from coast

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

1.0

2050

1.0

Data source

bushfire Risk

60/100

The risk of bushfires in Peelhurst is relatively high due to the proximity of bushland and dry vegetation. Hot, dry summers increase the likelihood of fire ignition and spread.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Dry vegetation
  • ·Hot summers
  • ·Windy conditions

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

6.0

2050

6.0

Data source

What This Means for Property Owners

Insurance Outlook

Insurance premiums may increase due to bushfire and flood risk.

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's vulnerability to heatwaves.
  • 3.Review insurance coverage for climate-related risks.
  • 4.Consider energy efficiency upgrades to reduce cooling costs.

Local Climate Evidence

Flood Evidence

Nearest Waterway
Swan River
Elevation Range
20-40 meters
Flood Zone
Low to moderate risk areas identified

Historical flood data indicates localized flooding during periods of intense rainfall.

View council flood map

Bushfire Evidence

Distance to Bushland
Adjacent to bushland reserves
Planning Overlay
Bushfire Prone Area overlay applies
Bushfire Prone Area
Yes

DFES actively manages bushfire risk in the region through prescribed burns and community education programs.

Heat Evidence

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

Urban areas within Peelhurst experience higher temperatures due to the urban heat island effect.

Coastal Evidence

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

Historical Climate Events

2010
floodModerate

Heavy rainfall caused localized flooding in low-lying areas of Peelhurst.

Source
2015
bushfireModerate

A bushfire near Peelhurst threatened properties and required evacuations.

Source
2019
heatwaveModerate

Peelhurst experienced a prolonged heatwave with temperatures exceeding 40°C for several days.

Source
2022
floodMinor

Minor flooding occurred after a period of heavy rainfall, affecting some residential areas.

Source

Climate Outlook to 2050

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

HazardToday20302050
flood404.5(+0.5)5.0(+1.0)
bushfire606.2(+0.2)6.3(+0.3)
heat505.8(+0.8)6.5(+1.5)
coastal101.01.0

By 2030, Peelhurst is projected to experience a moderate increase in overall climate risk, primarily driven by increased heatwave intensity and frequency. Flood risk is also expected to rise due to changes in rainfall patterns. Bushfire risk will remain relatively stable.

CSIRO Climate Projections

Adaptation Recommendations

Improve drainage infrastructure

Near-term

Upgrade drainage systems to handle increased rainfall and reduce the risk of flooding.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Implement bushfire management strategies

Immediate

Conduct prescribed burns and maintain firebreaks to reduce the risk of bushfires.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Develop a heatwave response plan

Near-term

Establish cooling centers and provide public education on heatwave safety.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

Promote water conservation

Long-term

Encourage residents to conserve water to reduce strain on water resources during droughts.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

Enhance community awareness

Near-term

Educate residents about climate risks and adaptation measures through workshops and online resources.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

About Peelhurst's Climate Risk Profile

Peelhurst, Western Australia, is a suburb that is increasingly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. The most significant risks are associated with bushfires and heatwaves, which are expected to become more frequent and intense in the coming decades. Changes in rainfall patterns are also contributing to increased flood risk.

The risk of bushfires is elevated due to the presence of dry vegetation and hot, dry summers. The combination of these factors creates ideal conditions for fire ignition and spread. Residents should be aware of bushfire safety measures and have evacuation plans in place.

Heatwaves are another significant concern, particularly for vulnerable populations. High temperatures can lead to heat stress and other health problems. It is important to stay hydrated, seek shade, and avoid strenuous activity during heatwaves.

While Peelhurst is not directly exposed to coastal risks, changes in rainfall patterns are increasing the risk of flooding. Heavy rainfall events can overwhelm drainage systems and cause flash flooding. Residents should be aware of flood warnings and take steps to protect their property.

Addressing these climate risks will require a combination of mitigation and adaptation measures. Mitigation efforts should focus on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, while adaptation measures should focus on protecting communities from the impacts of climate change.

Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · DFES

Local Government Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main climate change risks in Peelhurst?

The main climate change risks in Peelhurst are increased heatwaves, bushfire risk, and flooding due to more intense rainfall events.

How will climate change affect property values in Peelhurst?

Properties in areas at high risk of flooding or bushfire may experience a decrease in value. It's important to assess a property's vulnerability to these risks.

What can I do to prepare my home for heatwaves in Peelhurst?

Install insulation, use energy-efficient appliances, and consider installing air conditioning. Stay hydrated and avoid strenuous activity during heatwaves.

Where can I find information about flood risks in Peelhurst?

You can find information about flood risks on the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development website, which provides floodplain mapping and other resources.

What is the local council doing to address climate change in Peelhurst?

The local council is currently developing a climate strategy to address climate change. Check the council website for updates on their initiatives.

How can I prepare my family for a bushfire in Peelhurst?

Create a bushfire survival plan, clear vegetation around your home, and have an emergency kit ready. Stay informed about bushfire warnings and evacuation procedures.

Get your property's risk report

This suburb assessment covers the area. For a precise address-level climate risk report for any specific property in Peelhurst, use our analysis tool.

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What A$69 could save you from

$7.2B
2022 insured disaster losses*
$300B+
climate risk to property by 2050*
30-120%
insurance premium increases in high-risk areas*

*Industry sources: ICA, APRA, RBA

Full report from A$69 · Australian addresses only · 8 hazard scores · Insurance trajectory · 2030 & 2050 projections