Climate Risk Profile: Edmonton, QLD
Edmonton, Queensland, faces moderate climate risks, primarily from flooding and heatwaves. The suburb's proximity to waterways and bushland contributes to these vulnerabilities. Climate change is expected to exacerbate these risks in the future.
Overall Risk Score
Confidence: Medium
Hazard Breakdown
Climate Hazard Breakdown for Edmonton
Flood
Edmonton is prone to flooding due to its proximity to the Mulgrave River and other waterways. Heavy rainfall events can cause riverine and flash flooding, impacting residential and commercial areas.
Key drivers:
- ·Increased rainfall intensity
- ·Urban development
Bushfire
Edmonton faces a moderate bushfire risk due to the presence of surrounding bushland. Hot, dry conditions during the bushfire season can increase the likelihood of fire ignition and spread.
Key drivers:
- ·Dry vegetation
- ·High temperatures
Heat
Edmonton experiences high temperatures and humidity during the summer months. Climate change is expected to increase the frequency and intensity of heatwaves, posing a risk to vulnerable populations.
Key drivers:
- ·Climate change
- ·Urban heat island effect
Coastal
Edmonton is located inland and has a low coastal risk. Sea level rise and coastal erosion are not significant threats to the suburb.
Key drivers:
- ·Distance from coast
Wind
Notable wind risk — tropical cyclone wind fields
Storm
Notable storm risk — cyclones and thunderstorms
Social
Moderate social stability — growth regions
Energy
Elevated energy costs — high cooling demand
In-Depth Climate Risk Guides for Edmonton
Property buying guide with climate risk assessment
Flood zone mapping, historical events, and projections
BAL assessment, vegetation proximity, and fire history
Multi-hazard safety assessment to 2050
Severe weather, hail, and wind risk analysis
Extreme heat days, urban heat island, and cooling costs
Premium estimates and insurance availability
Climate-adjusted property investment analysis
Detailed Hazard Analysis
heat Risk
Edmonton experiences high temperatures and humidity during the summer months. Climate change is expected to increase the frequency and intensity of heatwaves, posing a risk to vulnerable populations.
Primary Drivers
- ·Climate change
- ·Urban heat island effect
Projections (RCP8.5)
2030
6.5
2050
7.0
flood Risk
Edmonton is prone to flooding due to its proximity to the Mulgrave River and other waterways. Heavy rainfall events can cause riverine and flash flooding, impacting residential and commercial areas.
Primary Drivers
- ·Increased rainfall intensity
- ·Urban development
- ·Climate change
Projections (RCP8.5)
2030
7.5
2050
8.0
coastal Risk
Edmonton is located inland and has a low coastal risk. Sea level rise and coastal erosion are not significant threats to the suburb.
Primary Drivers
- ·Distance from coast
Projections (RCP2.6)
2030
2.0
2050
2.0
bushfire Risk
Edmonton faces a moderate bushfire risk due to the presence of surrounding bushland. Hot, dry conditions during the bushfire season can increase the likelihood of fire ignition and spread.
Primary Drivers
- ·Dry vegetation
- ·High temperatures
- ·Wind
Projections (RCP4.5)
2030
4.2
2050
4.5
What This Means for Property Owners
Insurance Outlook
Insurers may increase premiums in flood-prone areas.
Price Impact
Properties in high-risk areas may experience reduced property values.
Buyer Checklist
- 1.Check flood maps and historical flood data.
- 2.Assess bushfire risk and implement mitigation measures.
- 3.Consider the impact of heatwaves on property comfort and energy costs.
- 4.Review insurance coverage for climate-related risks.
Local Climate Evidence
Flood Evidence
- Nearest Waterway
- Mulgrave River
- Elevation Range
- 5-20 meters
- Flood Zone
- Medium to High Risk
Historical flood events have impacted properties along the Mulgrave River.
View council flood mapBushfire Evidence
- Distance to Bushland
- Adjacent to bushland reserves
- Planning Overlay
- QFES Bushfire Prone Area Map
- Bushfire Prone Area
- Yes
Residents should maintain fire breaks and clear vegetation around their homes.
Heat Evidence
- Avg January Max Temp
- 31.5°C
- Heat Stress Days/Year
- 5 days
Heatwaves typically occur during the months of December to February.
Coastal Evidence
- Distance to Coast
- 15 km
- Sea Level Rise Exposure
- Low
- Erosion Risk
- Low
Historical Climate Events
Heavy rainfall caused the Mulgrave River to flood, impacting low-lying areas of Edmonton.
SourceA prolonged heatwave resulted in increased hospital admissions and strain on the electricity grid.
SourceWidespread flooding across Queensland, including Edmonton, caused significant damage to property and infrastructure.
SourceA bushfire near Edmonton caused property damage and required residents to evacuate.
SourceClimate Outlook to 2050
Projections based on CSIRO and BOM climate modelling. Scenario: RCP4.5
| Hazard | Today | 2030 | 2050 |
|---|---|---|---|
| flood | 70 | 7.5(+0.5) | 8.0(+1.0) |
| bushfire | 40 | 4.1(+0.1) | 4.3(+0.3) |
| heat | 60 | 6.4(+0.4) | 6.9(+0.9) |
| coastal | 20 | 2.0 | 2.0 |
By 2030, Edmonton is projected to experience a slight increase in overall climate risk, primarily driven by increased flooding and heatwave intensity. Bushfire risk is expected to remain relatively stable, while coastal risks will remain low.
CSIRO Climate ProjectionsAdaptation Recommendations
Improve Flood Defenses
Near-termInvest in infrastructure to mitigate flood risk, such as levees, drainage improvements, and flood-proofing of buildings.
Est. cost: High
Learn moreEnhance Bushfire Preparedness
Near-termImplement bushfire mitigation measures, such as clearing vegetation around properties, creating fire breaks, and developing community evacuation plans.
Est. cost: Medium
Learn moreDevelop Heatwave Response Plan
ImmediateImplement a heatwave response plan to protect vulnerable populations, including establishing cooling centers, providing public education, and ensuring access to healthcare.
Est. cost: Low
Learn morePromote Water Conservation
Long-termEncourage water conservation measures to reduce water demand during periods of drought and heatwaves.
Est. cost: Low
Learn moreStrengthen Community Resilience
Long-termFoster community resilience through education, awareness campaigns, and community-based adaptation initiatives.
Est. cost: Low
Learn moreAbout Edmonton's Climate Risk Profile
Edmonton is a suburb of Cairns, Queensland, located south of the city center. The area is characterized by a mix of residential, commercial, and agricultural land uses. The Mulgrave River and other waterways traverse the suburb, making it susceptible to flooding during periods of heavy rainfall.
Bushfire risk is also a concern in Edmonton, particularly in areas adjacent to bushland. Hot, dry conditions can increase the likelihood of fire ignition and spread, posing a threat to properties and infrastructure. Residents should be aware of bushfire safety guidelines and maintain their properties to reduce fire hazards.
Heatwaves are another significant climate risk in Edmonton. High temperatures and humidity during the summer months can cause heat stress and other health problems, especially for vulnerable populations such as the elderly and those with chronic illnesses. Climate change is projected to increase the frequency and intensity of heatwaves in the region.
While coastal risks are relatively low in Edmonton due to its inland location, the suburb may still be indirectly affected by sea level rise and coastal erosion in other parts of the Cairns region. Changes in coastal ecosystems and infrastructure could have broader economic and social impacts.
Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · QFES · Cairns Regional Council
Local Government Resources
Cairns Regional Council
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main climate change risks in Edmonton?
The main climate change risks in Edmonton are flooding, heatwaves, and bushfires. These risks are expected to increase in the future due to climate change.
How can I protect my property from flooding in Edmonton?
You can protect your property from flooding by flood-proofing your home, maintaining drainage systems, and being aware of flood warnings.
What should I do during a heatwave in Edmonton?
During a heatwave, stay indoors in air-conditioned environments, drink plenty of water, and avoid strenuous activities. Check on vulnerable neighbors and family members.
How can I prepare for a bushfire in Edmonton?
Prepare for a bushfire by clearing vegetation around your property, creating a fire break, and having a bushfire survival plan.
Where can I find more information about climate change risks in Edmonton?
You can find more information about climate change risks in Edmonton from the Cairns Regional Council, the Queensland Government, and the Bureau of Meteorology.
Is Edmonton a good place to invest in property considering climate change?
Edmonton presents both opportunities and risks for property investment. While the area offers affordability and growth potential, it's crucial to consider the increasing risks of flooding and heatwaves. Conducting thorough due diligence, including assessing flood maps and understanding potential insurance costs, is essential before investing.
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