Climate Risk Profile: Ingham, QLD
Ingham faces significant risks from flooding due to its location in a floodplain. The town is also vulnerable to heatwaves and indirect impacts from coastal hazards. Climate change is projected to increase the severity and frequency of these events.
Overall Risk Score
Confidence: Medium
Hazard Breakdown
Detailed Hazard Analysis
heat Risk
Ingham experiences high temperatures and humidity, leading to heat stress during summer months. Climate change is expected to exacerbate these conditions.
Primary Drivers
- ·Rising average temperatures
- ·Increased frequency of heatwaves
- ·Urban heat island effect
Projections (RCP8.5)
2030
7.2
2050
7.8
flood Risk
Ingham is located in a floodplain area and is highly susceptible to flooding from heavy rainfall and river overflows.
Primary Drivers
- ·Increased rainfall intensity
- ·Sea level rise impacting drainage
- ·Land use changes increasing runoff
Projections (RCP8.5)
2030
7.8
2050
8.2
coastal Risk
Ingham is located inland, but is still indirectly affected by coastal hazards such as storm surges and sea level rise impacting nearby coastal communities and infrastructure.
Primary Drivers
- ·Sea level rise
- ·Increased storm intensity
- ·Coastal erosion
Projections (RCP8.5)
2030
5.8
2050
6.2
bushfire Risk
The risk of bushfires in Ingham is moderate, with potential for grassfires and bushfires impacting the outskirts of the town.
Primary Drivers
- ·Dry vegetation
- ·Increased frequency of heatwaves
- ·Human ignition sources
Projections (RCP4.5)
2030
3.4
2050
3.6
What This Means for Property Owners
Insurance Outlook
Premiums are likely to increase due to flood risk.
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.Consider potential impacts from coastal hazards.
- 4.Review council's disaster management plan.
Local Climate Evidence
Flood Evidence
- Nearest Waterway
- Herbert River
- Elevation Range
- 5-15m
- Flood Zone
- High
Ingham has a history of significant flooding events, with the Herbert River frequently exceeding its banks during heavy rainfall.
View council flood mapBushfire Evidence
- Distance to Bushland
- Adjacent
- Planning Overlay
- https://www.qfes.qld.gov.au/bushfires
- Bushfire Prone Area
- Yes
The area surrounding Ingham contains vegetation that can act as fuel for bushfires.
Heat Evidence
- Avg January Max Temp
- 31.5°C
- Heat Stress Days/Year
- 15 days
High humidity levels in Ingham exacerbate the effects of heatwaves, increasing the risk of heat stress.
Coastal Evidence
- Distance to Coast
- 20 km
- Sea Level Rise Exposure
- Indirectly exposed through impacts on regional infrastructure
- Erosion Risk
- Low
Historical Climate Events
Record-breaking rainfall caused widespread flooding in Ingham and surrounding areas, inundating homes and businesses.
SourceSevere flooding impacted Ingham, causing significant damage to infrastructure and properties.
SourceProlonged heatwave conditions led to increased hospital admissions for heat-related illnesses.
SourceHeavy rainfall caused flash flooding in parts of Ingham, disrupting traffic and affecting some businesses.
SourceClimate Outlook to 2050
Projections based on CSIRO and BOM climate modelling. Scenario: RCP4.5
| Hazard | Today | 2030 | 2050 |
|---|---|---|---|
| flood | 7.5 | 7.7(+0.2) | 8.2(+0.7) |
| bushfire | 3.2 | 3.3(+0.1) | 3.5(+0.3) |
| heat | 6.8 | 7.2(+0.4) | 8.3(+1.5) |
| coastal | 5.5 | 5.7(+0.2) | 6.0(+0.5) |
Under a moderate emissions scenario, Ingham is projected to experience a slight increase in overall climate risk, with heatwaves and flooding becoming more frequent and intense.
CSIRO Climate ProjectionsAdaptation Recommendations
Upgrade flood defenses
ImmediateInvest in levees, drainage systems, and flood-proofing measures to protect homes and businesses from flooding.
Est. cost: High
Learn moreDevelop a heatwave management plan
Near-termImplement strategies to protect vulnerable populations during heatwaves, such as cooling centers and public awareness campaigns.
Est. cost: Medium
Learn moreStrengthen building codes
Near-termUpdate building codes to ensure new construction is resilient to flooding, bushfires, and extreme heat.
Est. cost: Medium
Learn moreEnhance community awareness
Long-termEducate residents about climate risks and adaptation measures through workshops, brochures, and online resources.
Est. cost: Low
Learn moreAbout Ingham's Climate Risk Profile
Ingham is situated in the Hinchinbrook Shire and is particularly vulnerable to flooding. The Herbert River and other waterways contribute to the flood risk, with heavy rainfall events causing significant inundation. Climate change is expected to increase rainfall intensity, exacerbating the flood risk in the region.
Bushfire risk is moderate, with potential for fires to spread from surrounding bushland. Hot and dry conditions during the dry season increase the likelihood of bushfires. Heatwaves are also a concern, with rising temperatures posing health risks to vulnerable populations.
While Ingham is not directly on the coast, it is indirectly affected by coastal hazards. Sea level rise and storm surges can impact nearby coastal communities and infrastructure, potentially disrupting supply chains and access to essential services.
Adapting to these climate risks will require a combination of infrastructure improvements, land use planning, and community awareness programs. Protecting the town from flooding is a key priority, along with managing bushfire risk and mitigating the impacts of heatwaves. Collaboration between local government, state agencies, and the community is essential to building resilience to climate change.
Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · QFES · Hinchinbrook Shire Council
Local Government Resources
Hinchinbrook Shire Council
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main climate change risks in Ingham?
The main climate change risks in Ingham are flooding, heatwaves, and indirect impacts from coastal hazards. Climate change is expected to increase the frequency and intensity of these events.
How is the council preparing for climate change?
The Hinchinbrook Shire Council is developing strategies to manage climate risks, including upgrading flood defenses, implementing heatwave management plans, and enhancing community awareness.
What can I do to protect my property from flooding?
You can protect your property from flooding by installing flood-proofing measures, such as raising electrical outlets and sealing walls. It's also important to have a flood emergency plan.
How can I stay safe during a heatwave?
During a heatwave, it's important to stay hydrated, avoid strenuous activity, and seek shelter in air-conditioned environments. Check on vulnerable neighbors and family members.
Will climate change affect property values in Ingham?
Climate change may affect property values in Ingham, particularly in flood-prone areas. Properties that are more resilient to climate risks may retain their value better.
Where can I find more information about climate change in Ingham?
You can find more information about climate change in Ingham on the Hinchinbrook Shire Council website, the Queensland Government website, and the CSIRO website.
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