Tropical Cyclone Alfred Brings Severe Weather to Eastern Australia
A rare and powerful tropical cyclone, named Alfred, has begun to impact eastern Australia, particularly the state of Queensland. As of Thursday, strong winds and rain have started to lash the region, prompting significant precautionary measures. Schools in the affected areas have been closed, public transport has been halted, and residents are scrambling to prepare for the storm’s arrival. With the cyclone expected to make landfall near Brisbane over the weekend, authorities are urging residents to take all necessary precautions to ensure their safety.
Impact on Brisbane and Surrounding Areas
Brisbane, the capital of Queensland and Australia’s third-most populous city, lies directly in the path of Cyclone Alfred. The city, which is scheduled to host the 2032 Olympic Games, is bracing for what could be its first major cyclone in nearly 50 years. According to Matt Collopy, a manager at the Bureau of Meteorology, winds have already begun to pick up in exposed coastal areas, with gusts reaching up to 90 kph (56 mph). The cyclone’s sustained winds near its center are currently at 95 kph (59 mph), with gusts reaching up to 130 kph (81 mph).
Flooding Fears and Preparations
One of the most significant concerns is the potential for widespread flooding, particularly in Brisbane, which is largely built on a river floodplain. Modeling suggests that up to 20,000 homes could be affected by floodwaters. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced that over 660 schools in southern Queensland and 280 schools in northern New South Wales have been closed as a precautionary measure. The federal government has also distributed 310,000 sandbags to Brisbane, with more on the way to help residents protect their homes.
Residents Scramble for Supplies
The urgency of the situation has led to a shortage of sandbags in Brisbane, prompting some residents to seek alternative solutions. Damien Effeney, a chief executive of a rural supplies business, noted that many people are opting to buy potting mix as a substitute for sandbags due to the difficulty in accessing them. Long queues at sandbag distribution points and empty shelves have become common sights, as residents prepare for the worst. Supermarkets have also been stripped bare of essential items such as bread, milk, bottled water, and batteries.
Power Outages and Evacuations
The effects of Cyclone Alfred are already being felt, with power outages reported in northern New South Wales, affecting over 4,500 homes and businesses. Heavy rain and rising rivers have also prompted emergency authorities to evacuate 14 communities in the region to avoid the risk of being trapped by floodwaters. The coast near the border of Queensland and New South Wales has been battered by unusually high tides and seas, with a record-breaking 12.3-meter (40-foot) wave recorded off a popular Gold Coast beach.
Meteorologists Warn of Prolonged Impact
While residents initially expected Cyclone Alfred to make landfall earlier, a revised forecast has given them an additional 24 hours to prepare. However, meteorologist Jane Golding has cautioned that the cyclone’s slower progression means that the rain and wind will have more time to cause damage. As the storm continues to move towards the coast, the focus remains on ensuring public safety and minimizing the impact of what could be a devastating weather event. Authorities are urging everyone in the affected areas to remain vigilant and follow all safety instructions carefully.
