Storm Surge Atlas

Cairns Queensland Australia

Storm Surge Inundation Maps

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Why are these maps different

These maps represent actual storm surge inundation that can occur in different tropical cyclone scenarios. In an actual tropical cyclone event, this atlas allows you to find the storm surge map that closely represents the tropical cyclone, by using the cyclone characteristics issued by authorities. This atlas does not represent the height of water abover ground, it is height of water relative to mean sea level.

The purpose of this atlas

The purpose of the maps in this atlas is to show the variation in storm surge inundation in various tropical cyclone events that can affect Cairns.

It should be noted that the maps reflect only saltwater flooding from storm surge and are based on the Mean Tide for Cairns which is the most common tide level experienced in Cairns (1.674m above Chart Datum or 0m AHD)..

These maps do not reflect the wave set-up and wave run-up that accompany the storm surge. There is also a degree and extent of freshwater flooding that can occur in a tropical cyclone event that is not presented in these maps.

The proximity of the tropical cyclone crossing locations were chosen to make landfall north of Cairns so as to place the most intense onshore winds in the vicinity of Cairns.

  • Taylor Point - approx 15km north of Cairns CBD
  • Redcliff Point - approx 25km north of Cairns CBD
  • Yule Point - approx 45kkm north of Cairns CBD

Crossing Locations

How were these maps created

The maps in this atlas were created using a storm surge inundation model GCOM2D that was created by Dr. Graeme Hubbert of Global Environmental Modelling Systems (GEMS) www.gems-aus.com. Over 200 computer simulations were run, i.e. over 200 tropical cyclone scenarios.

The maps presented in this atlas are based on tropical cyclone characteristics including

For more information on the storm surge model GCOM2D and the methodology click here

 

 

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In a Tropical Cyclone Event, ALWAYS act on official advice provided by Local Authorities and Emergency Managers

 

 

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