Climate Risk in Swanbourne, WA

Swanbourne, Western Australia· UNKNOWN
Low Risk
Updated Mar 2026

Swanbourne is a suburb with generally low climate risk, but coastal hazards pose a significant threat. Residents should stay informed about potential impacts and take appropriate adaptation measures. The suburb is projected to experience increasing heat and coastal risks in the future.

Overall Risk Score

3.5/10
Low

Confidence: Medium

Hazard Breakdown

Flood
2.0
Bushfire
4.0
Heat
3.0
Coastal
5.0

Detailed Hazard Analysis

heat Risk

3.0/10

Swanbourne experiences moderate heat risk, with increasing average temperatures and more frequent heatwave events projected. Vulnerable populations should take precautions during hot weather.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Global warming
  • ·Urban heat island effect

Projections (RCP4.5)

2030

3.5

2050

4.0

Data source

flood Risk

2.0/10

Swanbourne has a relatively low flood risk. Most properties are not prone to riverine or flash flooding, but localized heavy rainfall events can cause temporary inundation.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Rainfall intensity
  • ·Drainage capacity

Projections (RCP4.5)

2030

2.2

2050

2.5

Data source

coastal Risk

5.0/10

Swanbourne is exposed to coastal hazards, including sea level rise and coastal erosion. The suburb's proximity to the coast makes it vulnerable to these impacts, particularly in the long term.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Sea level rise
  • ·Storm surge
  • ·Erosion

Projections (RCP4.5)

2030

5.5

2050

6.5

Data source

bushfire Risk

4.0/10

Swanbourne faces a moderate bushfire risk due to its proximity to vegetated areas. While the risk is not extreme, residents should be aware and prepared, especially during dry periods.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Vegetation density
  • ·Temperature
  • ·Wind patterns

Projections (RCP4.5)

2030

4.2

2050

4.5

Data source

What This Means for Property Owners

Insurance Outlook

Insurance premiums may increase over time due to climate-related risks, particularly coastal hazards.

Price Impact

Properties closer to the coast may experience downward pressure on prices due to sea level rise and erosion concerns.

Buyer Checklist

  • 1.Check flood maps and drainage systems.
  • 2.Assess bushfire risk and implement mitigation measures.
  • 3.Consider the potential impacts of sea level rise and coastal erosion.
  • 4.Review insurance coverage for climate-related events.
  • 5.Evaluate energy efficiency and cooling options for heatwaves.

Local Climate Evidence

Flood Evidence

Nearest Waterway
Swan River
Elevation Range
5-20 meters
Flood Zone
Low-lying areas near the river

Localized flooding can occur during periods of intense rainfall due to drainage limitations.

View council flood map

Bushfire Evidence

Distance to Bushland
Adjacent to Bold Park
Planning Overlay
DFES Bushfire Prone Area Map
Bushfire Prone Area
Yes

Properties bordering Bold Park are at higher risk.

Heat Evidence

Avg January Max Temp
31.5°C
Heat Stress Days/Year
3 days

Heat stress is more pronounced in areas with limited vegetation cover.

Coastal Evidence

Distance to Coast
0.5 km
Sea Level Rise Exposure
Moderate to high
Erosion Risk
Moderate

Historical Climate Events

2010
stormModerate

A severe storm caused localized flooding and power outages in Swanbourne.

Source
2011
floodMinor

Heavy rainfall led to minor flooding in low-lying areas near the Swan River.

Source
2015
heatwaveModerate

A prolonged heatwave resulted in increased demand for cooling and strain on the power grid.

Source
2021
bushfireMinor

A bushfire near Bold Park threatened properties in Swanbourne, but was quickly contained.

Source

Climate Outlook to 2050

Projections based on CSIRO and BOM climate modelling. Scenario: RCP4.5

HazardToday20302050
flood2.02.2(+0.2)2.5(+0.5)
bushfire4.04.2(+0.2)4.5(+0.5)
heat3.03.3(+0.3)3.7(+0.7)
coastal5.05.8(+0.8)6.8(+1.8)

By 2030, Swanbourne is projected to experience a moderate increase in overall climate risk, with coastal hazards and heatwaves posing the greatest challenges. Sea level rise will exacerbate coastal erosion, while higher temperatures will increase the frequency and intensity of heatwaves.

CSIRO Climate Projections

Adaptation Recommendations

Coastal Protection Measures

Near-term

Implement coastal protection measures, such as seawalls and beach nourishment, to mitigate the impacts of sea level rise and erosion.

Est. cost: High

Learn more

Improved Drainage Infrastructure

Near-term

Upgrade drainage infrastructure to reduce the risk of localized flooding during heavy rainfall events.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Bushfire Preparedness Programs

Immediate

Promote bushfire preparedness programs and community education to reduce the risk of bushfire damage.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

Heatwave Action Plan

Immediate

Develop and implement a heatwave action plan to protect vulnerable populations during periods of extreme heat.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

Promote Water Conservation

Long-term

Encourage water conservation measures to address potential water scarcity issues related to climate change.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

About Swanbourne's Climate Risk Profile

Swanbourne, Western Australia, faces a range of climate-related risks, with coastal hazards being the most prominent concern. The suburb's location near the coast makes it vulnerable to sea level rise, storm surges, and coastal erosion. These factors could impact property values and infrastructure in the long term.

While the flood risk is relatively low, localized heavy rainfall events can still cause temporary inundation. Residents should ensure their properties have adequate drainage and be aware of flood warnings.

Bushfire risk is moderate, requiring residents to maintain their properties and be prepared for potential bushfire events, especially during dry periods. Staying informed about fire danger ratings and having a bushfire plan is crucial.

Heat risk is increasing, with projections indicating higher average temperatures and more frequent heatwaves. Vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and those with chronic health conditions, should take extra precautions during hot weather.

Overall, Swanbourne requires a proactive approach to climate adaptation, focusing on coastal protection, flood management, bushfire preparedness, and heatwave response.

Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · DFES

Local Government Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main climate risks facing Swanbourne?

The main climate risks facing Swanbourne are coastal hazards (sea level rise and erosion), heatwaves, and bushfires. Localized flooding can also occur during heavy rainfall events.

How will sea level rise affect Swanbourne?

Sea level rise is expected to increase coastal erosion and inundation in Swanbourne, particularly in low-lying areas near the coast. This could impact property values and infrastructure.

What can I do to prepare for bushfires in Swanbourne?

To prepare for bushfires, maintain your property by clearing vegetation, have a bushfire plan, and stay informed about fire danger ratings. Consider installing fire-resistant landscaping.

How can I protect myself during a heatwave in Swanbourne?

During a heatwave, stay indoors in air-conditioned environments, drink plenty of water, and avoid strenuous activities. Check on vulnerable neighbors and family members.

Where can I find information about local flood risks in Swanbourne?

Information about local flood risks can be obtained from the City of Nedlands and the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation. Check their websites for flood maps and related resources.

Are there any community initiatives to address climate change in Swanbourne?

Check with the City of Nedlands for information on local community initiatives related to climate change, such as tree planting programs and sustainability workshops.

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