Ex Tropic Cyclone Alfred moves inland; Lismore, northern NSW under flood alert

Extreme Weather Warnings Issued Across Northern Rivers and Beyond

Heavy rain and damaging winds are expected to impact parts of the Northern Rivers, Northern Tablelands, and Mid North Coast on Sunday, with the potential for 50-100mm of rainfall in just six hours and up to 150mm over 24 hours. Major flood warnings have been issued for the Clarence River at Grafton and the Tweed River at Tumbulgum, signaling a high risk of dangerous flooding in these areas. The intense weather system, linked to the remnants of a tropical low, is expected to ease by Sunday night and into Monday morning, but communities are urged to remain vigilant. The New South Wales State Emergency Service (SES) has emphasized that even though the cyclone was downgraded to a low before making landfall, the risks remain significant.

Severe Weather in Queensland: Power Outages and Injuries Reported

In neighboring Queensland, severe weather warnings remain in place for the south-eastern corner of the state, where approximately 320,000 residents are without power—nearly a third of those affected are on the Gold Coast. In Brisbane, two people were injured, one seriously enough to require hospitalization, due to falling trees in strong winds. The situation underscores the destructive power of the storm system and the importance of staying safe during extreme weather events. Authorities are working to restore power and respond to emergencies, but the cleanup and recovery efforts are expected to take time.

Emergency Warnings and Response in New South Wales

As of Sunday morning, approximately 14,600 people across New South Wales are under emergency warnings, with around 31,200 homes subject to flood-related warnings, including "watch and act" and "emergency" alerts. The SES has been inundated with calls, receiving over 10,390 requests for assistance and responding to more than 5,982 incidents. Despite the downgrading of the cyclone, the organization has urged residents to remain prepared and stay informed. Flood rescues are ongoing, with 29 performed as of Sunday, while 915 flood-related incidents were attended to in the previous 24 hours alone.

Flood Warnings Extend Across Multiple Regions

The impact of the extreme weather is widespread, with flood warnings active as far south as Gloucester, west of Forster, and as far inland as Coonamble, north of Dubbo. This highlights the vast reach of the storm system and the need for communities in diverse regions to remain vigilant. Lismore, a city with a history of severe flooding, is particularly at risk of major flooding once again. Residents are advised to monitor local conditions closely and follow evacuation orders if necessary. The SES has also encouraged people to keep a portable radio on hand to stay updated with the latest information from emergency broadcasters.

Schools Closed and Communities on High Alert

More than 300 schools in northern New South Wales are scheduled to remain closed on Monday, as the region grapples with the aftermath of the storm. This decision reflects the ongoing risks posed by flooding and the need to prioritize the safety of students and staff. Parents and guardians are advised to check for updates from local authorities and school districts regarding closures and resumption of classes. Meanwhile, the SES and other emergency services continue to work tirelessly to respond to incidents, conduct rescues, and support affected communities.

A Call toStay Prepared and Informed

As the weather system progresses, residents are reminded to stay informed and take all necessary precautions to ensure their safety. The SES has reiterated the importance of having a plan in place, including knowing evacuation routes, having emergency supplies, and staying connected with loved ones. While the worst of the weather is expected to ease by Monday morning, the lingering effects of flooding and damage could pose risks for days to come. By staying vigilant and working together, communities can navigate this challenging situation and support those in need.