- North Eastern Queensland is expected to become warmer with more hot days and nights. The average number of days over 35°C in Cairns could grow from the current 3 to 4-9 days by 2030, in Townsville from 4 to 5-12 and in Longreach from 115 to 123-163.
- Warmer temperatures and population growth are likely to cause a rise in heat-related illness and death for those over 65.
- In Cairns, annual heat-related deaths for those over 65 may grow from 1 to 4-5 by 2020 and 11-26 by 2050 and in Townsville from 3 deaths to 5-7 by 2020 and 10-34 by 2050.
- The spread of vector-borne, water-borne and food-borne disease will likely increase with predictions the mosquito that carries Dengue Fever possibly reaching Rockhampton by 2050. These health issues may increase pressure on medical and hospital services.
- Growth in peak summer energy demand, due to air-conditioning use, may increase the risk of blackouts.
- By 2030 a decline in annual rainfall and higher evaporation would likely reduce run-off to rivers, including the Fitzroy and Burnett Rivers, causing a tendency for more frequent and severe droughts and further stressing water supply.
- Increases in extreme storm events are expected to cause more cyclone damage and flash flooding affecting local industry and infrastructure, including water, sewerage and stormwater, transport and communications, and may challenge emergency services.
- In coastal areas infrastructure may be vulnerable to sea level rise and inundation.
- The Great Barrier Reef is likely to experience significant annual bleaching events by 2030 (high global warming) causing significant coral damage impacting biodiversity, fishing and tourism.
- Agriculture may see some benefits in warmer and wetter conditions however is likely to be adversely affected through livestock heat stress and an increased prevalence of plant diseases, weeds and pests.
- Communities dependent upon vulnerable industries such as agriculture, fishing and tourism may be adversely affected.
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