Residents in low-lying areas stacked sandbags on Wednesday as a tropical cyclone approached Australia’s east coast. This storm is expected to be the first in over five decades to hit near Brisbane, the country’s third-largest city.
Cyclone Alfred to Make Landfall Soon
Tropical Cyclone Alfred is moving toward the coast and is expected to make landfall between Brisbane and the Gold Coast late Thursday or early Friday. According to Bureau of Meteorology manager Matt Collopy, both cities, separated by just 80 kilometers, are likely to experience strong winds and heavy rain.
Currently, Alfred is over the Pacific Ocean, about 400 kilometers east of Brisbane. It is moving west with sustained winds of 95 kph and gusts reaching 130 kph. “That is destructive winds,” Collopy warned. He added that the cyclone is expected to maintain its strength until it reaches land.
Coastal Erosion and Flooding a Major Concern
For several days, large swells and powerful waves have already hit the Queensland coast. This has caused severe coastal erosion and flooding in some areas. “This will continue and likely get worse as the system approaches and makes landfall,” Collopy stated.
He also warned of heavy rainfall and life-threatening floods in the coming days. “The wave, wind, rainfall, and particularly the storm surge present significant risks,” he added.
Government Steps Up Preparations
The last time a cyclone hit this region was in 1974, when Cyclone Zoe struck the Gold Coast and caused widespread flooding. Since then, cyclones have been rare in Queensland’s southeast, which is more temperate and densely populated than the tropical north.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced emergency support for Queensland. “We are providing the state with 250,000 sandbags, in addition to the 80,000 already delivered by the military,” he said.
Brisbane Prepares for Possible Flooding
Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said flood models suggest that up to 20,000 homes in the city could be affected. Authorities have set up a cyclone refuge at the Brisbane Showgrounds for people needing shelter. Evacuation centers for longer stays will also be available.
Closures and Evacuations Begin
Queensland Premier David Crisafulli ordered restrictions on boat movement starting Wednesday afternoon. Any vessel moored in the area needs permission from the Brisbane harbor master to move.
From Thursday, several services will be suspended. Schools will close, hospitals will postpone non-urgent surgeries, and public transport will halt in affected regions. Meanwhile, authorities have started evacuations. On Tuesday night, officials evacuated 68 people from South Stradbroke Island, with more evacuations continuing.
Authorities Urge Residents to Take Cyclone Seriously
Premier Crisafulli emphasized the seriousness of the situation. “This is a very rare event for southeast Queensland, I acknowledge that, but I’m asking Queenslanders to take it seriously. We are taking it seriously,” he said.
With the storm nearing land, officials urge residents to prepare their homes and plan evacuation routes. As the situation unfolds, authorities remain on high alert to minimize damage and protect lives.
