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PROPERTY ANALYTICS

Climate Risk in Pemberton, WA

Pemberton, Western Australia· UNKNOWN
Medium Risk
Updated Mar 2026

Pemberton faces moderate climate risks, primarily from bushfires, flooding, and heatwaves. These risks are projected to increase with climate change, potentially impacting property values and community well-being. Residents should prepare for more frequent extreme weather events.

Overall Risk Score

5.8/10
Medium

Confidence: Medium

Hazard Breakdown

Flood
4.5
Bushfire
7.0
Heat
5.0
Coastal
1.0

Detailed Hazard Analysis

heat Risk

5.0/10

Pemberton experiences moderate heat risk, with increasing average temperatures and more frequent heatwaves projected. This poses a risk to vulnerable populations.

Primary Drivers

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

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

5.5

2050

6.0

Data source

flood Risk

4.5/10

Pemberton faces a moderate risk of flooding, primarily from heavy rainfall events and riverine flooding. The risk is expected to increase with climate change.

Primary Drivers

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

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

5.0

2050

5.5

Data source

coastal Risk

1.0/10

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

Primary Drivers

  • ·Distance from the coast

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

1.0

2050

1.0

Data source

bushfire Risk

7.0/10

Pemberton has a high bushfire risk due to its proximity to dense forests and dry conditions during summer. Climate change is projected to exacerbate this risk.

Primary Drivers

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

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

7.5

2050

8.0

Data source

What This Means for Property Owners

Insurance Outlook

Insurance premiums may increase due to the elevated bushfire and flood 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's vulnerability to extreme weather events.
  • 3.Obtain insurance quotes and understand coverage.
  • 4.Consider energy efficiency and water conservation measures.

Local Climate Evidence

Flood Evidence

Nearest Waterway
Donnelly River
Elevation Range
150-250m
Flood Zone
Areas near the Donnelly River are prone to flooding.

Historical flood data indicates that properties near the river are most at risk.

View council flood map

Bushfire Evidence

Distance to Bushland
Immediately adjacent to state forest.
Planning Overlay
DFES Bushfire Prone Area Map
Bushfire Prone Area
Yes

The entire suburb is designated as a bushfire prone area.

Heat Evidence

Avg January Max Temp
27.5°C
Heat Stress Days/Year
3 days

Heatwaves are becoming more frequent and intense in recent years.

Coastal Evidence

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

Historical Climate Events

2016
floodModerate

Heavy rainfall caused the Donnelly River to flood, impacting low-lying areas of Pemberton.

Source
2019
bushfireModerate

A bushfire near Pemberton threatened the town, requiring evacuations and property protection efforts.

Source
2022
heatwaveModerate

Pemberton experienced a prolonged heatwave with record-breaking temperatures, impacting public health and infrastructure.

Source
2023
floodMinor

Localized flooding occurred after a period of intense rainfall, affecting some residential areas.

Source

Climate Outlook to 2050

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

HazardToday20302050
flood4.54.8(+0.3)5.1(+0.6)
bushfire7.07.4(+0.4)7.8(+0.8)
heat5.05.6(+0.6)6.0(+1.0)
coastal1.01.01.0

By 2030, Pemberton is projected to experience a moderate increase in overall climate risk, with notable increases in heatwave frequency and bushfire intensity. Flooding risk will also increase due to more intense rainfall events.

CSIRO Climate Projections

Adaptation Recommendations

Bushfire Preparedness Plan

Immediate

Develop and implement a comprehensive bushfire preparedness plan for your property, including clearing vegetation, creating firebreaks, and having an evacuation plan.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

Flood Mitigation Measures

Near-term

Implement flood mitigation measures such as installing flood barriers, improving drainage, and elevating vulnerable equipment.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Heatwave Preparedness

Immediate

Prepare for heatwaves by ensuring access to cooling, staying hydrated, and checking on vulnerable neighbors.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

Sustainable Land Management

Long-term

Promote sustainable land management practices to reduce bushfire risk and protect water resources.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Community Education Programs

Near-term

Implement community education programs to raise awareness about climate risks and adaptation strategies.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

About Pemberton's Climate Risk Profile

Pemberton, located in the southwest of Western Australia, is characterized by its stunning forests and agricultural lands. However, the region is increasingly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.

Bushfire risk is a significant concern, with the potential for devastating fires during dry summer months. The combination of dry vegetation, high temperatures, and strong winds creates ideal conditions for bushfires to spread rapidly. Residents need to be vigilant and prepared for potential evacuations.

Flooding is another risk, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall. The region's rivers and streams can overflow, inundating low-lying areas and causing damage to property. Climate change is expected to increase the intensity of rainfall events, exacerbating the risk of flooding.

Heatwaves are also becoming more frequent and intense, posing a threat to vulnerable populations such as the elderly and those with chronic health conditions. Rising average temperatures are contributing to increased heat stress and the potential for heat-related illnesses.

While coastal risks are minimal due to Pemberton's inland location, the broader impacts of climate change on the region's economy and environment should not be ignored. Sustainable land management practices and community resilience initiatives are crucial for mitigating the risks and adapting to a changing climate.

Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · DFES

Local Government Resources

Shire of Manjimup

Climate StrategyFlood MapsEmergency Services

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main climate risks in Pemberton?

The main climate risks in Pemberton are bushfires, flooding, and heatwaves. These risks are projected to increase with climate change.

How can I prepare my property for bushfires?

You can prepare your property for bushfires by clearing vegetation, creating firebreaks, and having an evacuation plan.

What should I do during a heatwave?

During a heatwave, stay hydrated, seek cooling, and check on vulnerable neighbors.

Where can I find information about flood risks in Pemberton?

You can find information about flood risks in Pemberton on the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation website.

How is the local council addressing climate change?

The Shire of Manjimup is developing and implementing climate adaptation strategies to address the risks posed by climate change.

Will climate change affect my insurance premiums in Pemberton?

Yes, insurance premiums may increase due to the elevated bushfire and flood risks associated with climate change.

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