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Climate Risk Profile: Douglas, QLD

Douglas, Queensland· UNKNOWN
Medium Risk
Updated Mar 2026

Douglas, Queensland, faces moderate climate risks, primarily related to flooding and heatwaves. The suburb's proximity to the Ross River increases its vulnerability to flooding, while rising temperatures pose a threat to residents during summer. While coastal risks are minimal, bushfire risk is present but relatively low.

Overall Risk Score

5.8/10
Medium

Confidence: Medium

Hazard Breakdown

Flood
6.5
Bushfire
3.2
Heat
7.5
Coastal
0.3

Detailed Hazard Analysis

heat Risk

7.5/10

Douglas experiences high temperatures during the summer months. Climate change is projected to increase the frequency and intensity of heatwaves, posing a risk to vulnerable populations.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Rising average temperatures
  • ·Increased frequency of heatwaves
  • ·Urban heat island effect

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

8.0

2050

8.5

Data source

flood Risk

6.5/10

Douglas is located near the Ross River, making it susceptible to flooding during periods of heavy rainfall. Climate change is expected to increase the intensity of rainfall events, potentially leading to more frequent and severe flooding.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Increased rainfall intensity
  • ·Proximity to Ross River
  • ·Urban development

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

7.0

2050

7.5

Data source

coastal Risk

0.3/10

Douglas is located inland and is not directly exposed to coastal hazards such as sea level rise and coastal erosion. The risk from coastal hazards is considered very low.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Distance from the coast

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

0.3

2050

0.3

Data source

bushfire Risk

3.2/10

While not immediately adjacent to dense bushland, Douglas has some exposure to bushfire risk due to surrounding vegetation. Hotter and drier conditions associated with climate change can increase the likelihood of bushfires.

Primary Drivers

  • ·Increased temperatures
  • ·Drier conditions
  • ·Vegetation density

Projections (RCP8.5)

2030

3.7

2050

4.2

Data source

What This Means for Property Owners

Insurance Outlook

Insurance premiums may increase due to flood risk.

Price Impact

Properties in flood-prone areas may experience price reductions.

Buyer Checklist

  • 1.Check flood maps and historical flood data.
  • 2.Assess property's vulnerability to heatwaves.
  • 3.Inquire about council's climate adaptation plans.
  • 4.Review insurance options and premiums.

Local Climate Evidence

Flood Evidence

Nearest Waterway
Ross River
Elevation Range
10-30 meters
Flood Zone
Medium

Areas near the Ross River are most vulnerable to flooding.

View council flood map

Bushfire Evidence

Distance to Bushland
Within 2km
Planning Overlay
https://www.qfes.qld.gov.au/bushfires
Bushfire Prone Area
Yes

Some areas have been designated as bushfire prone.

Heat Evidence

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

Heatwaves are becoming more frequent and intense.

Coastal Evidence

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

Historical Climate Events

2019
floodMajor

The Townsville floods of 2019 caused widespread damage and disruption, impacting Douglas significantly.

Source
2018
heatwaveModerate

A prolonged heatwave in North Queensland led to increased hospital admissions and strain on infrastructure.

Source
2009
floodModerate

Heavy rainfall caused flooding in parts of Townsville, including Douglas.

Source

Climate Outlook to 2050

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

HazardToday20302050
flood6.57.0(+0.5)7.5(+1.0)
bushfire3.23.5(+0.3)3.7(+0.5)
heat7.58.2(+0.7)9.0(+1.5)
coastal0.30.30.3

By 2030, Douglas is projected to experience an increase in flood risk due to more intense rainfall events. Heatwave frequency and intensity are also expected to rise, posing challenges for public health.

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 residents during heatwaves, including cooling centers and public awareness campaigns.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Enhance Bushfire Preparedness

Long-term

Implement bushfire management strategies, including vegetation management and community education programs.

Est. cost: Medium

Learn more

Upgrade Infrastructure

Near-term

Upgrade critical infrastructure to withstand extreme weather events, including power grids and transportation networks.

Est. cost: High

Learn more

About Douglas's Climate Risk Profile

Douglas is a suburb of Townsville, Queensland, located inland from the coast. The primary climate-related risks for Douglas are flooding and heatwaves. The suburb's location near the Ross River makes it susceptible to flooding during periods of heavy rainfall. Climate change is expected to increase the intensity of rainfall events, potentially leading to more frequent and severe flooding.

Rising temperatures and more frequent heatwaves pose a significant threat to the health and well-being of Douglas residents, particularly vulnerable populations such as the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions. The urban environment can exacerbate the effects of heatwaves due to the urban heat island effect.

While Douglas is not directly exposed to coastal hazards, the risk of bushfires is present due to surrounding vegetation. Hotter and drier conditions associated with climate change can increase the likelihood of bushfires, although the risk is lower compared to other hazards.

Addressing these climate risks will require a combination of adaptation and mitigation strategies, including improved flood management infrastructure, heatwave preparedness plans, and measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · Queensland Emergency Services · Townsville City Council

Local Government Resources

Townsville City Council

Climate StrategyFlood MapsEmergency Services

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main climate change risks in Douglas?

The main climate change risks in Douglas are flooding due to its proximity to the Ross River and increased heatwave frequency and intensity.

How is the Townsville City Council addressing climate change?

The Townsville City Council has implemented various initiatives to address climate change, including developing a climate strategy and investing in flood mitigation infrastructure.

What can residents do to prepare for heatwaves in Douglas?

Residents can prepare for heatwaves by staying hydrated, seeking air-conditioned environments, and checking on vulnerable neighbors.

Is Douglas at risk from rising sea levels?

Douglas is located inland and is not directly at risk from rising sea levels.

Where can I find information about flood risks in Douglas?

Information about flood risks in Douglas can be found on the Townsville City Council website and through Queensland emergency services.

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