Tropical cyclone multi-hazard risk mapping for Queensland, Australia

Tropical cyclones (TCs) are dangerous and destructive natural hazards that impact population, infrastructure, and the environment. TCs are multi-hazardous severe weather phenomena; they produce damaging winds, storm surges, and torrential rain that can lead to flooding. Identifying regions most at risk to TC impacts assists with improving preparedness and resilience of communities. This study presents results of TC multi-hazard risk assessment and mapping for Queensland (QLD), Australia. Datasets from Global Assessment Report (GAR) Atlas were used to evaluate TC hazards. Data for exposure and vulnerability of population, infrastructure and the environment were sourced from agencies such as the Australian Bureau of Statistics. TC hazards of storm surges, floods, and winds were analysed individually. Combining risk indices for TC hazards, exposure and vulnerability, overall TC risk index was derived. TC multi-hazard risk maps were produced at the Local Government Area level using ArcGIS, and regions with higher risk of being impacted by TCs were identified. The developed TC multi-hazard risk maps provide disaster risk management offices with comprehensive comparative TC risk profile of QLD that can be used to proactively manage TC risk at the subnational scale.