Queensland, northern NSW in firing line of storm

Tropical Cyclone Alfred Bears Down on Queensland and Northern NSW: Residents Urged to Prepare for Impact

A powerful tropical cyclone is heading toward the eastern coast of Australia, putting residents in Queensland and northern New South Wales on high alert. Tropical Cyclone Alfred is forecast to make landfall as early as Thursday, bringing with it the potential for devastating consequences. Authorities have issued urgent warnings for communities in the cyclone’s path, emphasizing the importance of preparation and vigilance in the face of this severe weather event.

Category 2 Cyclone Expected to Deliver Heavy Rain and Damaging Winds

Tropical Cyclone Alfred is currently predicted to cross the coast somewhere between Bundaberg in Queensland and northern New South Wales, classified as a category 2 system. The cyclone is expected to unleash torrential rainfall, with totals reaching up to 600 millimeters per day, as well as damaging winds and coastal erosion. The sheer intensity of the storm has prompted authorities to issue flood watches and erosion warnings for coastal areas, with residents advised to stay tuned to weather updates and evacuation orders.

Residents Urged to Stockpile Supplies and Secure Properties

Queensland Premier David Crisafulli has called on residents to take immediate action to safeguard themselves and their properties. "Do everything you can," he urged, emphasizing the importance of stockpiling non-perishable food items, assembling emergency kits, and clearing debris from yards that could become projectiles in strong winds. Similarly, SES NSW has warned of the dangers of flash flooding, large surf, and powerful gusts, advising residents to prepare for the worst and have a clear evacuation plan in place.

Record Waves and Flooding Expected in Coastal Areas

The arrival of Tropical Cyclone Alfred has already made its presence felt, with record-breaking 14-meter waves recorded off the coast of Wide Bay in Queensland on Sunday. These conditions are expected to worsen as the storm draws closer to land, raising concerns about coastal erosion and inundation. Authorities are bracing for major riverine and flash flooding, particularly from Wednesday onward, as the cyclone’s heavy rainfall saturates the region.

State Governments and Telecommunications Companies Ramp Up Emergency Responses

The Queensland government has taken proactive steps to ensure residents remain connected during the crisis, calling on telecommunications companies to boost network capacity. This move aims to handle the expected surge in internet usage and emergency messaging as the cyclone makes landfall. Meanwhile, SES NSW has been working tirelessly to prepare for the anticipated fallout, with emergency services on standby to assist with evacuations, flood rescues, and property damage.

Community Safety and Preparation Take Center Stage

As Tropical Cyclone Alfred approaches, the focus remains firmly on community safety and preparedness. Residents are encouraged to take personal responsibility for their safety and that of their loved ones, including pets. NSW SES Assistant Commissioner Dean Storey stressed the importance of having a clear evacuation plan, saying, "We are asking the community to take steps now to ensure that if you are asked to evacuate, you have a plan for yourselves, your families, and your pets and know where you will go." With the storm’s arrival imminent, time is of the essence for those in its path to secure their homes, gather essential supplies, and remain vigilant for further updates.