Climate Risk Profile: Wembley, Western Australia
Wembley faces a moderate climate risk profile, with heat and coastal hazards posing the most significant threats. Residents should prepare for more frequent and intense heatwaves, as well as potential impacts from sea level rise and storm surges. While bushfire risk is relatively low, flooding from intense rainfall events remains a concern.
Overall Risk Score
Confidence: Medium
Hazard Breakdown
Detailed Hazard Analysis
heat Risk
Wembley is likely to experience more frequent and intense heatwaves in the future. This poses a significant risk to vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions.
Primary Drivers
- ·Rising average temperatures
- ·Increased frequency of heatwave events
Projections (RCP8.5)
2030
7.5
2050
8.0
flood Risk
Wembley faces a moderate risk of flooding, primarily from intense rainfall events and potential stormwater runoff. The flat topography in some areas can exacerbate water accumulation.
Primary Drivers
- ·Increased rainfall intensity
- ·Urban development reducing permeable surfaces
Projections (RCP8.5)
2030
5.0
2050
5.5
coastal Risk
Wembley is located a few kilometers inland from the coast, making it susceptible to indirect coastal hazards such as sea level rise and storm surges. These events can impact drainage and infrastructure.
Primary Drivers
- ·Sea level rise
- ·Increased storm intensity
Projections (RCP8.5)
2030
6.8
2050
7.3
bushfire Risk
The risk of bushfire in Wembley is relatively low due to its urban location and distance from large areas of dense bushland. However, parks and reserves within and near the suburb could pose a localized risk.
Primary Drivers
- ·Proximity to green spaces
- ·Dry vegetation during summer months
Projections (RCP8.5)
2030
3.2
2050
3.5
What This Means for Property Owners
Insurance Outlook
Insurance premiums may increase in the future due to increased climate risks.
Price Impact
Properties in low-lying areas may experience a slight decrease in value due to flood risk.
Buyer Checklist
- 1.Check flood maps and drainage plans.
- 2.Assess the property's vulnerability to heatwaves.
- 3.Consider the potential impact of sea level rise on drainage.
- 4.Inquire about bushfire protection measures if near bushland.
Local Climate Evidence
Flood Evidence
- Nearest Waterway
- Herdsman Lake
- Elevation Range
- 5-20 meters
- Flood Zone
- Low-lying areas near Herdsman Lake
Localized flooding can occur during periods of heavy rainfall, particularly in areas with poor drainage.
View council flood mapBushfire Evidence
- Distance to Bushland
- Within 1km of Bold Park
- Planning Overlay
- DFES Bushfire Prone Area Map
- Bushfire Prone Area
- Yes
Properties adjacent to or near Bold Park may be subject to specific bushfire protection measures.
Heat Evidence
- Avg January Max Temp
- 31.5°C
- Heat Stress Days/Year
- 5 days
The number of days exceeding 35°C is projected to increase in the coming years.
Coastal Evidence
- Distance to Coast
- 3 km
- Sea Level Rise Exposure
- Potential for groundwater intrusion and drainage impacts
- Erosion Risk
- Low
Historical Climate Events
Heavy rainfall caused localized flooding in Wembley, particularly in low-lying areas near Herdsman Lake.
SourcePerth experienced a prolonged heatwave in February 2011, with temperatures exceeding 40°C for several consecutive days. This event placed significant strain on the electricity grid and caused heat-related illnesses.
SourceA severe storm brought strong winds and heavy rainfall to Perth, causing minor damage to property in Wembley.
SourceAnother significant heatwave impacted Perth, with temperatures reaching record highs. This event highlighted the increasing vulnerability of the city to extreme heat.
SourceClimate Outlook to 2050
Projections based on CSIRO and BOM climate modelling. Scenario: RCP8.5
| Hazard | Today | 2030 | 2050 |
|---|---|---|---|
| flood | 4.5 | 4.8(+0.3) | 5.1(+0.6) |
| bushfire | 3.0 | 3.1(+0.1) | 3.3(+0.3) |
| heat | 7.0 | 7.8(+0.8) | 8.5(+1.5) |
| coastal | 6.3 | 6.7(+0.4) | 7.2(+0.9) |
By 2030, Wembley is projected to experience a noticeable increase in heatwave frequency and intensity, as well as a slight increase in flood risk. Coastal hazards are also expected to become more pronounced.
CSIRO Climate ProjectionsAdaptation Recommendations
Improve building design for heat resilience
Near-termEncourage the use of passive cooling techniques, such as shading and natural ventilation, in new and existing buildings. Promote the installation of solar panels and energy-efficient appliances to reduce energy consumption during heatwaves.
Est. cost: Medium
Learn moreEnhance drainage infrastructure
Near-termUpgrade stormwater drainage systems to cope with increased rainfall intensity and runoff. Implement green infrastructure solutions, such as rain gardens and permeable pavements, to reduce flooding.
Est. cost: High
Learn moreDevelop a community heatwave plan
ImmediateCreate a plan to protect vulnerable populations during heatwaves. This includes establishing cooling centers, providing outreach services, and educating residents about heat safety.
Est. cost: Low
Learn moreProtect coastal areas
Long-termImplement measures to protect coastal areas from sea level rise and storm surges. This includes building seawalls, restoring coastal vegetation, and relocating infrastructure away from vulnerable areas.
Est. cost: Very High
Learn moreAbout Wembley's Climate Risk Profile
Wembley, a suburb of Perth, Western Australia, is projected to experience increasing climate-related challenges in the coming decades. Rising temperatures and changing rainfall patterns are expected to exacerbate existing risks and introduce new vulnerabilities.
The primary concern for Wembley is the increasing frequency and intensity of heatwaves. As average temperatures rise, the suburb will likely experience more days exceeding extreme heat thresholds, impacting public health and infrastructure. Vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and those with chronic illnesses, will be particularly at risk.
Coastal hazards also pose a threat to Wembley, although the suburb is located a few kilometers inland. Sea level rise and storm surges could impact drainage systems and infrastructure, leading to localized flooding and disruptions. The interconnectedness of coastal and inland areas means that Wembley is not entirely immune to these risks.
While the risk of bushfire is relatively low due to the suburb's urban location, it is not negligible. Parks and reserves within and near Wembley could pose a localized risk, particularly during dry summer months. Residents should remain vigilant and take precautions to prevent bushfires.
To mitigate these risks, Wembley needs to implement adaptation measures that address both heat and coastal hazards. This includes improving building design to reduce heat absorption, enhancing drainage infrastructure to manage stormwater runoff, and developing community awareness programs to prepare residents for extreme weather events.
Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · DFES
Local Government Resources
Town of Cambridge
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main climate change risks for Wembley?
The main climate change risks for Wembley are increasing heatwaves, potential flooding from intense rainfall, and indirect impacts from sea level rise and storm surges.
How will climate change affect property values in Wembley?
Properties in low-lying areas may experience a slight decrease in value due to flood risk. However, the overall impact on property values is uncertain.
What is the council doing to address climate change in Wembley?
The Town of Cambridge is implementing various measures to address climate change, including upgrading drainage infrastructure, promoting energy efficiency, and developing a community heatwave plan.
How can I prepare my home for heatwaves?
You can prepare your home for heatwaves by installing insulation, shading windows, and using energy-efficient appliances. It is also important to have a plan for staying cool during extreme heat events.
Where can I find more information about climate change risks in Wembley?
You can find more information about climate change risks in Wembley on the Town of Cambridge website, the Department of Fire and Emergency Services website, and the Bureau of Meteorology website.
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