Climate Risk in Shire of Harvey, Western Australia
The Shire of Harvey faces a range of climate-related risks, including flooding, bushfires, heatwaves, and coastal hazards. These risks are projected to increase in the future due to climate change. Residents and businesses should take steps to prepare for these challenges.
Overall Risk Score
Confidence: Medium
Hazard Breakdown
Detailed Hazard Analysis
heat Risk
The Shire of Harvey experiences moderate heat risk, with increasing average temperatures and more frequent heatwaves projected. This can impact vulnerable populations and infrastructure.
Primary Drivers
- ·Rising global temperatures
- ·Urban heat island effect
Projections (RCP8.5)
2030
5.5
2050
6.0
flood Risk
The Shire of Harvey faces a moderate risk of flooding due to its low-lying areas and proximity to waterways. Intense rainfall events can lead to riverine and flash flooding.
Primary Drivers
- ·Increased rainfall intensity
- ·Sea level rise
- ·Urban development
Projections (RCP8.5)
2030
7.0
2050
7.5
coastal Risk
Coastal areas of the Shire of Harvey face a moderate risk from coastal hazards, including sea level rise and erosion. Low-lying areas are particularly vulnerable.
Primary Drivers
- ·Sea level rise
- ·Storm surges
Projections (RCP8.5)
2030
5.0
2050
5.5
bushfire Risk
Bushfire risk in the Shire of Harvey is high, particularly in areas adjacent to bushland. Hot, dry summers and strong winds contribute to the potential for severe bushfires.
Primary Drivers
- ·Dry vegetation
- ·High temperatures
- ·Strong winds
Projections (RCP8.5)
2030
7.0
2050
7.0
What This Means for Property Owners
Insurance Outlook
Insurance premiums may increase in high-risk areas.
Price Impact
Properties in high-risk areas may experience price reductions.
Buyer Checklist
- 1.Check flood maps and bushfire prone area designations.
- 2.Assess the property's vulnerability to climate change impacts.
- 3.Consider the cost of insurance and potential mitigation measures.
Local Climate Evidence
Flood Evidence
- Nearest Waterway
- Harvey River
- Elevation Range
- 0-100m
- Flood Zone
- Areas near the Harvey River and coastal regions are prone to flooding.
Historical flood events have impacted low-lying residential and agricultural areas.
View council flood mapBushfire Evidence
- Distance to Bushland
- Adjacent to large areas of state forest and national parks.
- Planning Overlay
- DFES Bushfire Prone Areas Map
- Bushfire Prone Area
- Yes
Many properties are located in or near bushfire prone areas.
Heat Evidence
- Avg January Max Temp
- 32°C
- Heat Stress Days/Year
- 3 days
Heatwaves are becoming more frequent and intense.
Coastal Evidence
- Distance to Coast
- 5 km
- Sea Level Rise Exposure
- Low-lying coastal areas are vulnerable to sea level rise.
- Erosion Risk
- Coastal erosion is a concern in some areas.
Historical Climate Events
A bushfire threatened communities in the Shire of Harvey, causing evacuations and property damage.
SourceMajor flooding impacted the Shire of Harvey, causing widespread damage to infrastructure and properties.
SourceA prolonged heatwave affected the Shire of Harvey, leading to heat stress and health concerns.
SourceClimate Outlook to 2050
Projections based on CSIRO and BOM climate modelling. Scenario: RCP4.5
| Hazard | Today | 2030 | 2050 | 2030 | 2050 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| flood | 6.5 | 6.8(+0.3) | 7.1(+0.6) | 7.0(+0.5) | 7.7(+1.2) |
| bushfire | 7.0 | 7.1(+0.1) | 7.2(+0.2) | 7.2(+0.2) | 7.4(+0.4) |
| heat | 5.0 | 5.2(+0.2) | 5.4(+0.4) | 5.3(+0.3) | 5.8(+0.8) |
| coastal | 4.5 | 4.6(+0.1) | 4.8(+0.3) | 4.7(+0.2) | 5.1(+0.6) |
Under a moderate emissions scenario, the Shire of Harvey is projected to experience a slight increase in overall climate risk by 2030, with flooding and heat risks increasing the most.
CSIRO Climate ProjectionsAdaptation Recommendations
Improve Flood Defenses
ImmediateInvest in flood defenses, such as levees and drainage systems, to protect communities and infrastructure from flooding.
Est. cost: High
Learn moreManage Bushfire Risks
Near-termImplement bushfire management strategies, such as controlled burns and vegetation clearing, to reduce the risk of bushfires.
Est. cost: Medium
Learn morePrepare for Heatwaves
Near-termDevelop heatwave response plans and provide cooling centers for vulnerable populations.
Est. cost: Low
Learn moreProtect Coastal Areas
Long-termImplement coastal management strategies, such as beach nourishment and seawalls, to protect coastal areas from erosion and sea level rise.
Est. cost: High
Learn moreCommunity Education Programs
Near-termEducate the community about climate change risks and adaptation measures.
Est. cost: Low
Learn moreAbout Shire of Harvey's Climate Risk Profile
The Shire of Harvey is located in the Peel region of Western Australia and is vulnerable to several climate change impacts. The region's low-lying coastal areas are susceptible to sea level rise and coastal erosion, while inland areas face increasing risks of flooding and bushfires. Rising temperatures and more frequent heatwaves pose additional challenges to public health and infrastructure.
Flooding is a significant concern in the Shire of Harvey, with several rivers and creeks prone to overflowing during periods of heavy rainfall. Climate change is expected to increase the intensity and frequency of extreme rainfall events, exacerbating flood risks. Bushfires are also a major threat, particularly during the hot, dry summer months. The Shire's proximity to large areas of bushland increases the risk of bushfires impacting communities and infrastructure.
Rising temperatures and more frequent heatwaves can have significant impacts on human health, particularly for vulnerable populations such as the elderly and those with chronic health conditions. Heat stress can lead to dehydration, heatstroke, and even death. Climate change is also expected to impact the Shire's agricultural sector, with changes in rainfall patterns and increased temperatures potentially affecting crop yields and livestock production.
Addressing these climate change risks requires a coordinated effort from all levels of government, as well as the community. Mitigation measures, such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions, are essential to slow the pace of climate change. Adaptation measures, such as improving flood defenses, managing bushfire risks, and preparing for heatwaves, are also crucial to protect communities and infrastructure.
Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · DFES
Local Government Resources
Shire of Harvey
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main climate change risks facing the Shire of Harvey?
The Shire of Harvey faces risks from flooding, bushfires, heatwaves, and coastal hazards, all of which are expected to worsen with climate change.
How is the Shire of Harvey preparing for climate change?
The Shire of Harvey is developing climate adaptation strategies and investing in infrastructure to mitigate the impacts of climate change.
What can residents do to prepare for climate change?
Residents can take steps to protect their homes from flooding and bushfires, conserve water, and prepare for heatwaves.
Where can I find more information about climate change in the Shire of Harvey?
You can find more information on the Shire of Harvey website, the Department of Fire and Emergency Services website, and the Bureau of Meteorology website.
Is my property at risk from flooding?
Properties in low-lying areas near rivers and creeks are at higher risk of flooding. Check the Shire's flood maps for more information.
What should I do during a heatwave?
Stay indoors in air-conditioned buildings, drink plenty of water, and avoid strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day.
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