Australia’s east coast is on high alert as Tropical Cyclone Alfred approaches Brisbane, bringing the potential for destructive winds, torrential rainfall, and severe flooding. Authorities have urged residents in flood-prone areas to evacuate immediately, warning of life-threatening conditions.
Storm warnings have been issued across a 500-kilometre stretch of Queensland and New South Wales, affecting millions of people. The cyclone is expected to make landfall early Friday as a Category 2 storm, with wind speeds reaching 155 kph (96 mph). Forecasters predict rainfall totals of up to 800 mm (31.5 inches) in some areas—exceeding the average monthly total for March—raising fears of catastrophic flash flooding.
Queensland Premier David Crisafulli underscored the seriousness of the situation, warning that this part of the state has not experienced a cyclone in decades. He urged residents to follow evacuation orders and prepare for the worst-case scenario.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has pledged federal support, deploying heavy-lift helicopters and offering additional resources as needed.
As the cyclone nears, evacuation centers are rapidly filling up, and residents are scrambling to secure homes and stock up on emergency supplies. Sandbags, bottled water, and essential groceries are in high demand, with some stores reporting shortages.
In anticipation of severe conditions, authorities have ordered school closures and public transport shutdowns in southeast Queensland and northern New South Wales starting Thursday. In New South Wales alone, 122 schools have been closed, and vulnerable residents have been strongly advised to relocate.
The last significant cyclone threat to Brisbane was in 1990, though it changed course before making landfall. The region has not experienced a direct cyclone strike in over 50 years, making Cyclone Alfred an exceptionally rare and dangerous event.
With heavy rain and powerful winds expected to batter the region for at least the next 48 hours, authorities are urging residents to stay vigilant, take precautions, and follow emergency directives as the storm approaches.
