Climate Risk Profile: Woree, QLD
Woree faces moderate climate risks, particularly from flooding, heatwaves and coastal hazards. Climate change is expected to exacerbate these risks, with increasing temperatures and more extreme weather events. Residents should take steps to prepare for these challenges.
Overall Risk Score
Confidence: Medium
Hazard Breakdown
Detailed Hazard Analysis
heat Risk
Woree experiences a high heat risk, with increasing average temperatures and more frequent heatwaves. This poses a significant threat to vulnerable populations.
Primary Drivers
- ·Rising average temperatures
- ·Increased frequency of heatwaves
- ·Urban heat island effect
Projections (RCP8.5)
2030
7.5
2050
8.0
flood Risk
Woree faces a moderate risk of flooding due to its proximity to waterways and low-lying areas. Climate change is expected to increase rainfall intensity, exacerbating flood risk.
Primary Drivers
- ·Increased rainfall intensity
- ·Sea level rise
- ·Urban development
Projections (RCP8.5)
2030
6.5
2050
7.0
coastal Risk
Woree faces a moderate risk from coastal hazards due to its proximity to the coast. Sea level rise and storm surges could lead to inundation and erosion.
Primary Drivers
- ·Sea level rise
- ·Increased storm intensity
- ·Coastal erosion
Projections (RCP8.5)
2030
6.5
2050
7.0
bushfire Risk
The bushfire risk in Woree is relatively low due to the suburb's location and limited bushland interface. However, hotter and drier conditions could increase the risk.
Primary Drivers
- ·Increased temperatures
- ·Drier conditions
- ·Vegetation dryness
Projections (RCP8.5)
2030
3.5
2050
4.0
What This Means for Property Owners
Insurance Outlook
Insurance premiums are likely to increase in the future due to the rising risk of flooding and other climate-related events.
Price Impact
Properties in flood-prone areas may experience a decrease in value as climate risks become more apparent.
Buyer Checklist
- 1.Check flood maps and historical flood data.
- 2.Assess the property's vulnerability to heatwaves.
- 3.Consider the potential impact of sea level rise.
- 4.Review insurance options and costs.
Local Climate Evidence
Flood Evidence
- Nearest Waterway
- Freshwater Creek
- Elevation Range
- 5-15 meters
- Flood Zone
- Medium
Historical flood data indicates that parts of Woree have been affected by flooding in the past. The council provides flood maps to help residents understand their risk.
View council flood mapBushfire Evidence
- Distance to Bushland
- 1-2 km
- Planning Overlay
- https://www.qfes.qld.gov.au/bushfires
- Bushfire Prone Area
- No
While not immediately adjacent to dense bushland, Woree is located near areas that could pose a bushfire risk under extreme conditions. Residents should maintain their properties to reduce fire hazards.
Heat Evidence
- Avg January Max Temp
- 31.5°C
- Heat Stress Days/Year
- 5 days
Woree experiences high average maximum temperatures in January, with several heat stress events per year. These events can put a strain on infrastructure and public health services.
Coastal Evidence
- Distance to Coast
- 5 km
- Sea Level Rise Exposure
- Low
- Erosion Risk
- Low
Historical Climate Events
Heavy rainfall caused flash flooding in parts of Woree, leading to road closures and property damage.
SourceA prolonged heatwave affected Woree, with temperatures exceeding 35 degrees Celsius for several consecutive days.
SourceWidespread flooding across Queensland impacted Woree, causing significant disruption and damage.
SourceClimate Outlook to 2050
Projections based on CSIRO and BOM climate modelling. Scenario: RCP8.5
| Hazard | Today | 2030 | 2050 |
|---|---|---|---|
| flood | 6.0 | 6.5(+0.5) | 7.0(+1.0) |
| bushfire | 3.0 | 3.2(+0.2) | 3.5(+0.5) |
| heat | 7.0 | 7.8(+0.8) | 8.5(+1.5) |
| coastal | 6.0 | 6.5(+0.5) | 7.0(+1.0) |
By 2030, Woree is projected to experience a noticeable increase in climate risks, particularly from heatwaves and flooding. Adaptation measures will be crucial to protect vulnerable populations and infrastructure.
CSIRO Climate ProjectionsAdaptation Recommendations
Improve Flood Protection Infrastructure
Near-termInvest in drainage upgrades, levees, and other infrastructure to reduce the risk of flooding.
Est. cost: High
Learn moreImplement Heatwave Early Warning System
ImmediateDevelop a system to alert residents of impending heatwaves and provide guidance on how to stay safe.
Est. cost: Low
Learn morePromote Water Conservation
Long-termEncourage residents and businesses to conserve water to reduce the strain on water resources during droughts.
Est. cost: Low
Learn moreEnhance Coastal Management
Near-termImplement strategies to protect coastal areas from erosion and inundation, such as beach nourishment and dune restoration.
Est. cost: Medium
Learn moreAbout Woree's Climate Risk Profile
Woree, Queensland, is a suburb that will be increasingly affected by climate change. The primary risks include flooding due to increased rainfall intensity and sea level rise, more frequent and intense heatwaves, and potential coastal inundation.
The risk of flooding is a significant concern for Woree. The suburb's low-lying areas and proximity to waterways make it vulnerable to both riverine and flash flooding. Climate change is projected to increase rainfall intensity, leading to more frequent and severe flood events. Residents and businesses should be prepared for potential disruptions and damages.
Heatwaves are another major threat. As average temperatures rise, Woree will experience more days of extreme heat, posing health risks to vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and those with chronic conditions. The urban heat island effect could further exacerbate these conditions.
Coastal hazards, including sea level rise and storm surges, also pose a risk to Woree. While the suburb is not directly on the coast, it is close enough that rising sea levels could lead to inundation of low-lying areas and increased coastal erosion. Planning for these long-term changes is essential.
Addressing these climate risks will require a combination of adaptation and mitigation strategies. This includes investing in flood protection infrastructure, implementing heatwave early warning systems, and promoting sustainable development practices. Individual actions, such as reducing energy consumption and preparing for extreme weather events, are also crucial.
Data sources: BOM · CSIRO · Queensland Government · Cairns Regional Council · QFES
Local Government Resources
Cairns Regional Council
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main climate change risks in Woree?
The main climate change risks in Woree include increased flooding, more frequent and intense heatwaves, and potential coastal inundation.
How will climate change affect property values in Woree?
Properties in flood-prone areas may experience a decrease in value as climate risks become more apparent. Insurance premiums are also likely to increase.
What is the council doing to address climate change in Woree?
The Cairns Regional Council is developing and implementing strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to the impacts of climate change. Check their website for details.
How can I prepare for heatwaves in Woree?
Stay indoors during the hottest part of the day, drink plenty of water, and check on vulnerable neighbors. Consider installing air conditioning or fans.
What should I do if my property is flooded in Woree?
Contact the State Emergency Service (SES) for assistance. Move to higher ground if possible and avoid contact with floodwaters.
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