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PROPERTY ANALYTICS

Climate Risk in Katherine East, NT

Katherine East, Northern Territory· UNKNOWN
Medium Risk
Updated Mar 2026

Katherine East faces moderate risks from flooding and heatwaves, with bushfire risk also present. Climate change is expected to exacerbate these risks, particularly in relation to heat and flooding. Residents should prepare for more frequent and intense extreme weather events.

Overall Risk Score

5.8/10
Medium

Confidence: Medium

Hazard Breakdown

Flood
6.5
Bushfire
4.2
Heat
7.0
Coastal
1.0

Detailed Hazard Analysis

heat Risk

7.0/10

Katherine East experiences high temperatures, particularly during the summer months. Heatwaves are becoming more frequent and intense, posing a risk to vulnerable populations.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Climate change
  • ·Urban heat island effect

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

7.5

2050

8.0

Data source

flood Risk

6.5/10

Katherine East faces a moderate risk of flooding, primarily from the Katherine River. Intense rainfall events can lead to riverine flooding, impacting low-lying areas.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Increased rainfall intensity
  • ·Urban development
  • ·Climate change

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

7.0

2050

7.5

Data source

coastal Risk

1.0/10

Katherine East is located inland and does not face a direct risk from coastal hazards such as sea level rise or coastal erosion.

Projections (RCP2.6)

2030

1.0

2050

1.0

Data source

bushfire Risk

4.2/10

The risk of bushfires in Katherine East is moderate. The surrounding savanna grasslands and woodlands are prone to fire during the dry season.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Dry vegetation
  • ·Lightning strikes
  • ·Human activity

Projections (RCP4.5)

2030

4.5

2050

4.8

Data source

What This Means for Property Owners

Insurance Outlook

Insurance premiums may increase due to flood and heatwave risks.

Price Impact

Properties in flood-prone areas may experience price reductions.

Buyer Checklist

  • 1.Check flood maps and insurance costs.
  • 2.Assess property's vulnerability to heatwaves.
  • 3.Review bushfire risk management plan.
  • 4.Consider energy efficiency upgrades.

Local Climate Evidence

Flood Evidence

Nearest Waterway
Katherine River
Elevation Range
50-70m
Flood Zone
Areas adjacent to the Katherine River are designated as flood zones.

Historical flood events have impacted properties near the river. The council provides information on flood preparedness.

View council flood map

Bushfire Evidence

Distance to Bushland
Adjacent to savanna woodlands
Planning Overlay
Refer to NT Fire and Rescue Service for bushfire prone area overlays.
Bushfire Prone Area
Yes

Residents should maintain fire breaks and clear vegetation around their properties.

Heat Evidence

Avg January Max Temp
37.5°C
Heat Stress Days/Year
15 days

Extended periods of high temperatures can lead to heat stress. Stay hydrated and seek air-conditioned environments during heatwaves.

Coastal Evidence

Distance to Coast
320 km
Sea Level Rise Exposure
Not applicable
Erosion Risk
Not applicable

Historical Climate Events

1998
floodMajor

The Katherine River experienced a major flood event, causing widespread damage and displacement.

Source
2006
floodModerate

Moderate flooding occurred along the Katherine River, impacting low-lying areas.

Source
2019
floodModerate

Heavy rainfall caused localized flooding in Katherine East.

Source
2018
heatwaveModerate

Prolonged heatwave conditions affected Katherine East, with temperatures exceeding 40°C for several days.

Source

Climate Outlook to 2050

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

HazardToday20302050
flood6.56.7(+0.2)7.0(+0.5)
bushfire4.24.3(+0.1)4.4(+0.2)
heat7.07.5(+0.5)8.5(+1.5)
coastal1.01.01.0

Under a moderate emissions scenario, Katherine East is projected to experience a slight increase in overall climate risk, primarily driven by increased heatwave frequency and intensity. Flood risk may also increase due to more intense rainfall events.

CSIRO Climate Projections

Adaptation Recommendations

Improve Flood Defenses

Near-term

Invest in infrastructure to mitigate flood risk, such as levees and improved drainage systems.

Est. cost: High

Learn more

Develop Heat Action Plan

Immediate

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

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Enhance Bushfire Preparedness

Near-term

Strengthen bushfire preparedness through community education, fuel reduction programs, and improved firefighting capabilities.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Promote Water Conservation

Long-term

Encourage water conservation measures to reduce water stress during periods of drought and heat.

Est. cost: Low

Learn more

About Katherine East's Climate Risk Profile

Katherine East, located in the Northern Territory, is subject to a range of climate-related risks. The primary concern is flooding from the Katherine River, which can inundate low-lying areas during periods of heavy rainfall. Climate change is projected to increase the intensity of rainfall events, leading to a higher risk of flooding in the future.

Bushfires are also a concern, particularly during the dry season. The surrounding savanna grasslands and woodlands are prone to fire, and lightning strikes or human activity can easily ignite them. While the risk is moderate, residents should be aware of fire safety precautions and have a plan in place in case of a bushfire.

Heatwaves are another significant risk, with Katherine East experiencing high temperatures during the summer months. Climate change is expected to increase the frequency and intensity of heatwaves, posing a risk to vulnerable populations such as the elderly and those with chronic health conditions.

While Katherine East is located inland and does not face a direct risk from coastal hazards, the indirect impacts of climate change, such as disruptions to supply chains and increased migration, could still affect the community. It is important for residents to be aware of these risks and take steps to prepare for them.

Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · NT Fire and Rescue Service · Katherine Town Council

Local Government Resources

Katherine Town Council

Climate StrategyFlood MapsEmergency Services

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main climate risks in Katherine East?

The main climate risks in Katherine East are flooding from the Katherine River, bushfires during the dry season, and heatwaves during the summer months.

How is climate change expected to affect Katherine East?

Climate change is expected to increase the frequency and intensity of heatwaves and rainfall events, leading to a higher risk of flooding and heat stress.

What can I do to prepare for flooding in Katherine East?

You can prepare for flooding by staying informed about flood warnings, having a flood plan in place, and protecting your property from flood damage.

How can I protect myself from heatwaves in Katherine East?

You can protect yourself from heatwaves by staying hydrated, seeking air-conditioned environments, and avoiding strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day.

What is the Katherine Town Council doing to address climate change?

The Katherine Town Council is developing and implementing strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to the impacts of climate change.

Where can I find more information about climate risks in Katherine East?

You can find more information about climate risks in Katherine East from the Katherine Town Council, the Northern Territory Government, and the Bureau of Meteorology.

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