Multi-hazard Tropical Cyclone Risk Assessment for Australia

Abstract

Abstract. Tropical cyclones (TCs) have long posed a significant threat to Australia's population, infrastructure, and natural environment. This threat may grow under climate change as projections indicate continuing sea level rise and increases in rainfall during TC events. Previous TC risk reduction efforts have focused on the risk from wind alone, whereas a holistic approach requires multi-hazard risk assessments that also consider impacts of other TC-related hazards. This study assessed and mapped TC risk nationwide, focusing on the impacts on population and infrastructure from the TC-related hazards of wind, storm surge, flooding and landslides. Risk maps were created at the Local Government Area (LGA) level for all of Australia, using collated data on multiple hazards, exposure and vulnerability. The study demonstrated that the risk posed by all hazards was highest for coastal LGAs of eastern Queensland and New South Wales followed by medium risk across Northern Territory and north-west of Western Australia, with flood and landslide hazards also affecting several inland LGAs. The resulting maps of risk will provide decision-makers with the information needed to further reduce TC risk, save lives, protect the environment, and reduce economic losses.