Climate Risk Assessment for Pinjarra, WA

Pinjarra, Western Australia· Murray· 6208
Medium Risk
Updated Mar 2026

Pinjarra faces a moderate climate risk, primarily driven by increasing heatwaves and potential flooding from the Murray River. Bushfire risk is also a concern due to surrounding bushland. While not directly coastal, changes in sea level may have indirect impacts.

Overall Risk Score

5.8/10
Medium

Confidence: Medium

Hazard Breakdown

Flood
6.5
Bushfire
4.5
Heat
7.0
Coastal
5.0

Detailed Hazard Analysis

heat Risk

7.0/10

Pinjarra is likely to experience more frequent and intense heatwaves. Higher average temperatures can impact vulnerable populations and infrastructure.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Increased temperatures
  • ·More frequent heatwaves

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

7.5

2050

8.0

Data source

flood Risk

6.5/10

Pinjarra faces a moderate risk of flooding due to its proximity to the Murray River and low-lying areas. Increased rainfall intensity and riverine flooding are potential concerns.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Increased rainfall intensity
  • ·Riverine flooding
  • ·Low-lying areas

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

7.0

2050

7.5

Data source

coastal Risk

5.0/10

While Pinjarra is not directly on the coast, it can be indirectly affected by coastal changes. Sea level rise and storm surges may impact nearby coastal communities and infrastructure, with potential flow-on effects.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Sea level rise
  • ·Storm surges
  • ·Proximity to coast

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

5.5

2050

6.0

Data source

bushfire Risk

4.5/10

The risk of bushfires in Pinjarra is moderate, with surrounding bushland posing a threat during dry periods. Changes in temperature and rainfall patterns could exacerbate fire risk.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Dry periods
  • ·Surrounding bushland
  • ·Increased temperatures

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

5.0

2050

5.5

Data source

What This Means for Property Owners

Insurance Outlook

Insurance premiums may increase due to climate risks.

Price Impact

Properties in flood-prone areas may experience price impacts.

Buyer Checklist

  • 1.Check flood maps and historical flood data.
  • 2.Assess bushfire risk and mitigation measures.
  • 3.Consider energy efficiency and cooling options.
  • 4.Review insurance coverage for climate-related events.

Local Climate Evidence

Flood Evidence

Nearest Waterway
Murray River
Elevation Range
5-20 meters
Flood Zone
Areas adjacent to the Murray River are prone to flooding.

Historical flood events have impacted properties near the Murray River.

View council flood map

Bushfire Evidence

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

Properties bordering bushland are at higher risk.

Heat Evidence

Avg January Max Temp
35°C
Heat Stress Days/Year
5 days

Heatwaves are becoming more frequent and intense.

Coastal Evidence

Distance to Coast
15 km
Sea Level Rise Exposure
Indirectly exposed through regional impacts.
Erosion Risk
Low

Historical Climate Events

2017
floodModerate

Heavy rainfall caused flooding along the Murray River, impacting some properties in Pinjarra.

Source
2015
bushfireModerate

A bushfire near Pinjarra threatened properties and required emergency response.

Source
2011
floodMinor

Minor flooding occurred in low-lying areas of Pinjarra due to heavy rainfall.

Source
2010
heatwaveModerate

A prolonged heatwave affected Pinjarra, with temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius for several days.

Source

Climate Outlook to 2050

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

HazardToday20302050
flood6.57.0(+0.5)7.5(+1.0)
bushfire4.55.0(+0.5)5.5(+1.0)
heat7.07.5(+0.5)8.0(+1.0)
coastal5.05.5(+0.5)6.0(+1.0)

By 2030, Pinjarra is projected to experience a moderate increase in overall climate risk, with rising temperatures and increased rainfall intensity contributing to higher flood and bushfire risks.

CSIRO Climate Projections

Adaptation Recommendations

Improve Flood Defenses

Near-term

Invest in infrastructure to mitigate flood risks along the Murray River, such as levees and improved drainage systems.

Est. cost: High

Learn more

Enhance Bushfire Preparedness

Near-term

Implement bushfire management strategies, including controlled burns and community education programs.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Develop Heat Action Plan

Immediate

Create a heat action plan to protect vulnerable populations during heatwaves, including cooling centers and public awareness campaigns.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

Promote Water Conservation

Long-term

Encourage water conservation measures to reduce the impact of droughts and water scarcity.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

About Pinjarra's Climate Risk Profile

Pinjarra, located inland from the coast in Western Australia, is increasingly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. The primary risks include more frequent and intense heatwaves, increased flooding potential from the Murray River, and a moderate risk of bushfires.

The rising temperatures pose a significant threat to the health and well-being of residents, particularly the elderly and those with pre-existing conditions. Infrastructure may also be affected by extreme heat events. Changes in rainfall patterns and increased intensity of storms could lead to more frequent and severe flooding events, impacting properties and infrastructure near the river.

Bushfire risk is also a concern, with surrounding bushland creating a potential fire hazard during dry periods. Changes in temperature and rainfall patterns could further exacerbate the risk of bushfires in the region.

Although Pinjarra is not directly on the coast, sea level rise and storm surges may indirectly affect the community through impacts on nearby coastal areas. It is important for residents and local authorities to take proactive measures to adapt to these changing conditions and mitigate the risks associated with climate change.

Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · DFES

Local Government Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main climate change risks in Pinjarra?

The main risks include increased heatwaves, flooding from the Murray River, and bushfire risk due to surrounding bushland.

How is the local council addressing climate change?

The Shire of Murray is developing and implementing strategies to mitigate and adapt to climate change impacts.

What can residents do to prepare for heatwaves?

Residents can stay hydrated, seek air-conditioned environments, and check on vulnerable neighbors during heatwaves.

Where can I find information about flood risks in Pinjarra?

Flood maps and information are available on the Shire of Murray website and from the Department of Fire and Emergency Services.

How can I protect my property from bushfires?

You can create a bushfire survival plan, clear vegetation around your home, and ensure you have adequate insurance coverage.

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