Sydney, March 6 (IANS): The New South Wales (NSW) State Emergency Service has issued urgent evacuation warnings as Tropical Cyclone Alfred approaches Australia’s east coast, bringing the risk of severe flooding, destructive winds, and dangerous storm surges.
Residents in the Northern Rivers region of northeastern NSW have been advised to evacuate by 9 p.m. local time on Thursday due to anticipated rapid river rises and heavy rainfall. Authorities warn that fallen trees and floodwaters may cut off safe evacuation routes.
“If you remain in the area, you may become trapped without power, water, and other essential services,” said NSW State Emergency Service State Duty Commander, Assistant Commissioner Nicole Hogan. She further cautioned that deteriorating conditions could prevent emergency services from conducting rescues, and structural damage to buildings was likely.
Residents in affected areas have been urged to seek refuge with family or friends in safe locations, utilize designated evacuation centers, or find alternative accommodation outside flood-prone regions.
Severe Weather System Poised to Make Landfall
Tropical Cyclone Alfred, currently classified as a Category 2 system, is expected to make landfall between Noosa and Coolangatta late Friday night or early Saturday morning, according to the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM). The impending cyclone is being compared to extreme weather events not witnessed in the region since 1974.
Authorities have placed over four million residents across Brisbane, the Gold Coast, and the Sunshine Coast on high alert as the system intensifies. The NSW State Emergency Service has described the cyclone as “a very dangerous weather system” capable of producing gale-force winds, torrential rainfall, and widespread flooding.
Disruptions to Transport and Air Travel
Major Australian airlines have suspended operations in Brisbane as a precautionary measure, while Gold Coast Airport has remained closed since Wednesday afternoon until further notice. Sunshine Coast Airport, however, continues to operate.
Public transport services have been suspended across affected regions on Thursday and Friday, with further updates expected as authorities monitor conditions.
Extreme Rainfall Forecast
The BOM forecasts heavy rainfall ranging between 200 mm and 400 mm per day, with total accumulations potentially exceeding 800 mm over the course of the storm. The extreme weather is likely to cause flash flooding, landslides, and hazardous conditions along the coastline.
Authorities continue to urge residents to remain vigilant, follow official warnings, and prioritize safety as Cyclone Alfred approaches. Emergency services are closely monitoring the situation and will provide ongoing updates as the system develops.
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