Climate Risk Profile: Smithfield, QLD
Smithfield, QLD, faces increasing risks from climate change, particularly related to flooding, heatwaves, and coastal hazards. The suburb's proximity to waterways and the coast makes it vulnerable to rising sea levels and intense rainfall events. Residents should prepare for more frequent and severe extreme weather events.
Overall Risk Score
Confidence: Medium
Hazard Breakdown
Climate Hazard Breakdown for Smithfield
Flood
Smithfield is located near waterways and low-lying areas, making it susceptible to flooding. Heavy rainfall events can lead to riverine and flash flooding.
Key drivers:
- ·Increased rainfall intensity
- ·Sea level rise
Bushfire
Smithfield has some areas adjacent to bushland, increasing the risk of bushfires, particularly during dry periods with strong winds.
Key drivers:
- ·Increased frequency of heatwaves
- ·Drier vegetation
Heat
Smithfield experiences high temperatures during summer, and heatwaves are becoming more frequent and intense, posing a risk to vulnerable populations.
Key drivers:
- ·Rising global temperatures
- ·Urban heat island effect
Coastal
Smithfield is located near the coast and is exposed to potential impacts from sea level rise and coastal erosion. Storm surges can exacerbate these risks.
Key drivers:
- ·Sea level rise
- ·Increased storm intensity
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 Smithfield
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
Smithfield experiences high temperatures during summer, and heatwaves are becoming more frequent and intense, posing a risk to vulnerable populations.
Primary Drivers
- ·Rising global temperatures
- ·Urban heat island effect
Projections (RCP8.5)
2030
7.5
2050
8.0
flood Risk
Smithfield is located near waterways and low-lying areas, making it susceptible to flooding. Heavy rainfall events can lead to riverine and flash flooding.
Primary Drivers
- ·Increased rainfall intensity
- ·Sea level rise
- ·Urban development
Projections (RCP8.5)
2030
7.0
2050
7.5
coastal Risk
Smithfield is located near the coast and is exposed to potential impacts from sea level rise and coastal erosion. Storm surges can exacerbate these risks.
Primary Drivers
- ·Sea level rise
- ·Increased storm intensity
Projections (RCP8.5)
2030
6.0
2050
6.5
bushfire Risk
Smithfield has some areas adjacent to bushland, increasing the risk of bushfires, particularly during dry periods with strong winds.
Primary Drivers
- ·Increased frequency of heatwaves
- ·Drier vegetation
- ·Stronger winds
Projections (RCP8.5)
2030
4.7
2050
5.2
What This Means for Property Owners
Insurance Outlook
Insurance premiums are likely to increase in response to increased flood and storm risks.
Price Impact
Properties in high-risk areas may experience a decrease in value.
Buyer Checklist
- 1.Check flood maps and historical flood data.
- 2.Assess bushfire risk and implement mitigation measures.
- 3.Consider the potential impacts of sea level rise.
- 4.Review insurance options and costs.
Local Climate Evidence
Flood Evidence
- Nearest Waterway
- Barron River
- Elevation Range
- 5-20 meters
- Flood Zone
- Areas near the Barron River are designated as flood zones.
Historical flood events have impacted properties near the Barron River. Council flood maps provide detailed information on flood risk areas.
View council flood mapBushfire Evidence
- Distance to Bushland
- Some properties are within 500m of bushland.
- Planning Overlay
- QFES bushfire prone area map indicates areas of risk.
- Bushfire Prone Area
- Yes
Residents in areas adjacent to bushland should maintain fire breaks and have a bushfire survival plan.
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 decades.
Coastal Evidence
- Distance to Coast
- 5 km
- Sea Level Rise Exposure
- Low-lying areas are susceptible to sea level rise.
- Erosion Risk
- Some coastal areas are at risk of erosion.
Historical Climate Events
Heavy rainfall caused flooding in low-lying areas of Smithfield, impacting homes and businesses.
SourceA prolonged heatwave resulted in increased hospital admissions and strain on the electricity grid.
SourceSignificant flooding event impacted many homes and businesses in Smithfield after heavy rainfall.
SourceClimate Outlook to 2050
Projections based on CSIRO and BOM climate modelling. Scenario: RCP8.5
| Hazard | Today | 2030 | 2050 |
|---|---|---|---|
| flood | 65 | 7.0(+0.5) | 7.5(+1.0) |
| bushfire | 42 | 4.5(+0.3) | 4.8(+0.6) |
| heat | 70 | 7.7(+0.7) | 8.5(+1.5) |
| coastal | 55 | 5.9(+0.4) | 6.3(+0.8) |
By 2030, Smithfield is projected to experience more frequent and intense heatwaves, increased rainfall intensity, and rising sea levels. These changes will increase the risk of flooding, bushfires, and coastal erosion.
CSIRO Climate ProjectionsAdaptation Recommendations
Upgrade Flood Defenses
Near-termInvest in infrastructure to protect against flooding, such as levees, drainage improvements, and flood-proofing of buildings.
Est. cost: High
Learn moreDevelop Heatwave Preparedness Plans
ImmediateImplement strategies to protect vulnerable populations during heatwaves, such as cooling centers and public awareness campaigns.
Est. cost: Medium
Learn moreStrengthen Coastal Defenses
Long-termImplement measures to protect against coastal erosion and sea level rise, such as seawalls and beach nourishment.
Est. cost: High
Learn moreImprove Bushfire Management
Near-termReduce bushfire risk through controlled burns, vegetation management, and community education programs.
Est. cost: Medium
Learn morePromote Water Conservation
Long-termEncourage water conservation measures to reduce demand on water resources during droughts and heatwaves.
Est. cost: Low
Learn moreAbout Smithfield's Climate Risk Profile
Smithfield, Queensland, is a suburb that is increasingly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. Its location near the coast and waterways means it is particularly susceptible to flooding from heavy rainfall and rising sea levels. The increasing frequency and intensity of heatwaves also pose a significant risk to the health and well-being of residents, especially the elderly and those with pre-existing conditions.
The risk of bushfires is also a concern, particularly during the dry season when vegetation becomes more flammable. Changes in temperature and rainfall patterns are expected to exacerbate these risks in the coming decades. The combination of these factors makes it essential for residents and local authorities to take proactive measures to adapt to the changing climate.
Climate projections indicate that Smithfield will experience more extreme weather events, including more intense rainfall, higher temperatures, and rising sea levels. These changes will have significant implications for infrastructure, property values, and the overall quality of life in the suburb. It is crucial for the community to work together to implement adaptation strategies that can help mitigate these risks.
Understanding the specific risks and taking appropriate action can help protect Smithfield from the worst impacts of climate change. This includes investing in flood mitigation infrastructure, implementing heatwave preparedness plans, and promoting sustainable land management practices. By working together, the community can build a more resilient and sustainable future for Smithfield.
Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · QFES · Cairns Regional Council
Local Government Resources
Cairns Regional Council
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main climate change risks for Smithfield?
Smithfield faces increasing risks from flooding, heatwaves, bushfires, and coastal hazards due to climate change.
How will climate change affect property values in Smithfield?
Properties in high-risk areas may experience a decrease in value due to increased flood and storm risks.
What can I do to prepare for heatwaves in Smithfield?
Stay hydrated, seek air-conditioned environments, and check on vulnerable neighbors during heatwaves.
Where can I find information on flood risks in Smithfield?
You can find flood maps and historical flood data on the Cairns Regional Council website.
What is the council doing to address climate change in Smithfield?
The Cairns Regional Council is developing and implementing climate adaptation strategies to mitigate the impacts of climate change.
How can I protect my home from bushfires in Smithfield?
Maintain fire breaks, clear vegetation around your home, and have a bushfire survival plan.
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