Climate Risk Assessment for Wandering, WA

Wandering, Western Australia· UNKNOWN
Medium Risk
Updated Mar 2026

Wandering faces moderate climate risks, primarily from bushfires, heatwaves and flooding. The risk is projected to increase in the future due to climate change.

Overall Risk Score

5.2/10
Medium

Confidence: Medium

Hazard Breakdown

Flood
4.5
Bushfire
6.0
Heat
5.0
Coastal
1.0

Detailed Hazard Analysis

heat Risk

5.0/10

Wandering is likely to experience more frequent and intense heatwaves. This will increase the risk of heat stress, especially for vulnerable populations.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Rising average temperatures
  • ·More frequent heatwaves
  • ·Urban heat island effect (minimal)

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

5.5

2050

6.0

Data source

flood Risk

4.5/10

Wandering faces a moderate risk of flooding, primarily from the Hotham River. Increased rainfall intensity could exacerbate this risk.

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

Coastal risks are minimal in Wandering due to its inland location.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Distance from coast

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

1.0

2050

1.0

Data source

bushfire Risk

6.0/10

The risk of bushfires in Wandering is relatively high due to the surrounding bushland. Drier conditions and higher temperatures are expected to increase this risk.

Primary Drivers

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

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

6.5

2050

7.0

Data source

What This Means for Property Owners

Insurance Outlook

Insurance premiums may increase due to increased climate risks.

Price Impact

Property values may be affected by increased climate risks.

Buyer Checklist

  • 1.Check flood maps
  • 2.Assess bushfire risk
  • 3.Consider heat resilience
  • 4.Review insurance options

Local Climate Evidence

Flood Evidence

Nearest Waterway
Hotham River
Elevation Range
250-300m
Flood Zone
Moderate

The Hotham River is the primary source of flood risk in Wandering. Historical flood events have been recorded.

View council flood map

Bushfire Evidence

Distance to Bushland
Adjacent
Planning Overlay
https://www.dfes.wa.gov.au/
Bushfire Prone Area
Yes

Wandering is surrounded by bushland, increasing the risk of bushfires. DFES provides bushfire prone area maps.

Heat Evidence

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

Wandering experiences hot summers, with average maximum temperatures in January reaching 35°C. Heatwaves are becoming more frequent.

Coastal Evidence

Distance to Coast
150 km
Sea Level Rise Exposure
None
Erosion Risk
None

Historical Climate Events

2010
floodModerate

Flooding occurred along the Hotham River, impacting some properties in Wandering.

Source
2015
bushfireModerate

A bushfire near Wandering threatened properties and required emergency response.

Source
2019
heatwaveModerate

A prolonged heatwave affected Wandering, with temperatures exceeding 40°C for several days.

Source
2022
floodMinor

Minor flooding occurred along the Hotham River after heavy rainfall.

Source

Climate Outlook to 2050

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

HazardToday20302050
flood4.54.8(+0.3)5.0(+0.5)
bushfire6.06.4(+0.4)6.8(+0.8)
heat5.05.6(+0.6)6.2(+1.2)
coastal1.01.01.0

By 2030, Wandering is projected to experience a moderate increase in overall climate risk, with notable increases in heatwave frequency and intensity, as well as a heightened risk of bushfires. Flooding risk will also increase slightly.

CSIRO Climate Projections

Adaptation Recommendations

Improve Flood Defenses

Near-term

Upgrade drainage infrastructure and implement flood management strategies along the Hotham River.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Bushfire Preparedness

Immediate

Implement bushfire mitigation measures, including vegetation management and community education programs.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Heatwave Management Plan

Near-term

Develop and implement a heatwave management plan to protect vulnerable populations during extreme heat events.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

Water Conservation

Long-term

Promote water conservation measures to address potential water scarcity due to climate change.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

About Wandering's Climate Risk Profile

Wandering, Western Australia, is an inland suburb that faces a range of climate-related challenges. The primary concerns are increasing temperatures, more frequent heatwaves, and the potential for more intense bushfires.

The risk of flooding is also present, particularly due to the Hotham River. Changes in rainfall patterns could lead to more frequent and severe flooding events.

While coastal risks are minimal due to its inland location, the broader regional impacts of climate change could still affect Wandering.

Addressing these challenges will require a combination of mitigation and adaptation strategies, including reducing greenhouse gas emissions, improving infrastructure resilience, and implementing effective emergency management plans.

Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · DFES

Local Government Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main climate change risks in Wandering?

The main climate change risks in Wandering are increasing temperatures, more frequent heatwaves, and the potential for more intense bushfires and flooding.

How will climate change affect property values in Wandering?

Increased climate risks may negatively affect property values in Wandering, particularly for properties located in flood-prone or bushfire-prone areas.

What can I do to prepare for heatwaves in Wandering?

Stay indoors during the hottest part of the day, drink plenty of water, and check on vulnerable neighbors and family members.

Where can I find information about bushfire risks in Wandering?

Information about bushfire risks in Wandering can be found on the DFES website and through local community groups.

Is Wandering likely to experience water shortages in the future?

Climate change may lead to reduced rainfall and increased evaporation, potentially leading to water shortages in Wandering. Water conservation measures are important.

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