Sydney, March 4 (IANS) – Communities across southeast Queensland and northeast New South Wales (NSW) are preparing for the direct landfall of Tropical Cyclone Alfred, which is forecast to strike on Thursday. This marks the first time since 1974 that a tropical cyclone has directly impacted this region.
As of early Tuesday morning, the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) reported that Cyclone Alfred was located approximately 560 km east of Brisbane, moving southeast at a speed of 6 km/h. While several storms have previously passed near the area, Alfred’s anticipated direct impact has raised concerns about its potential for severe flooding, powerful winds, and hazardous ocean conditions.
Initially classified as a Category One cyclone, Alfred has since intensified to Category Two. Although not as severe as cyclones typically experienced in northern Australia, its trajectory over densely populated areas has heightened concerns. Meteorologists expect the system to veer sharply toward southeast Queensland by Tuesday afternoon, posing a serious threat to Brisbane, the state capital, which is home to 2.5 million residents and is highly prone to flooding.
Authorities Issue Warnings, Urge Preparations
With the cyclone’s arrival imminent, more than 4 million residents across southeast Queensland and northeast NSW have been placed on high alert. Authorities have advised residents to prepare for power outages lasting at least three days, with forecasts predicting up to 400 mm of rainfall and wind speeds reaching 130 km/h.
Brisbane and its surrounding areas have faced severe flooding three times in the past 15 years, but unlike northern Queensland—where cyclone preparedness is more common—many residents in the capital are less accustomed to such extreme weather events.
Andrew Gissing, CEO of Natural Hazards Research Australia (NHRA), emphasized the importance of early preparation. Research following the 2022 floods in Queensland and NSW revealed that 50 percent of residents acknowledged they could have been more prepared.
“If your home was built before 1980, it may not comply with modern building codes and could be at significant risk from strong winds,” Gissing warned. “Caravans and cabins are particularly vulnerable, and fallen trees may damage powerlines, leading to widespread blackouts and disruptions.”
Community and Government Response
Authorities and residents have begun taking proactive measures ahead of the cyclone’s impact. The Brisbane City Council has distributed 74,000 sandbags, the highest number in the city’s history. Long queues have formed at distribution points, with residents from across southeast Queensland rushing to secure sandbags to protect their properties.
Several sports and recreational facilities have also been affected. The Queensland Tennis Centre in Brisbane has announced a temporary closure, installing floodgates as a precaution against expected heavy rainfall. In Surfers Paradise, a popular seaside resort on the Gold Coast, swimming has been restricted due to hazardous ocean conditions.
Meanwhile, schools have issued advisories to parents and communities regarding potential closures, following the recommendations of emergency services.
Brisbane Mayor Adrian Schrinner reiterated the importance of preparedness, urging residents to take the cyclone threat seriously.
Outlook and Ongoing Monitoring
While Cyclone Alfred’s path remains subject to change, the BOM continues to closely monitor its movement. Residents are advised to stay updated with official weather warnings and to follow emergency protocols to minimize risks associated with severe weather conditions.
Authorities stress that early preparation—including securing homes, stocking essential supplies, and staying informed—will be critical in mitigating the cyclone’s impact on the region’s population and infrastructure.
For the latest updates and emergency assistance, residents are urged to follow official BOM advisories and local government announcements.
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