Tropical Cyclone Alfred is poised to make its mark on Brisbane, Australia, where authorities are bracing for one of the most severe storms to threaten the region since 1974. Residents are being urged to prepare for significant impacts, as this cyclone is expected to bring destructive winds and heavy rainfall.
Brisbane, home to over 2.5 million people, has not experienced direct cyclone landfall for 35 years. "This is a very rare event for southeast Queensland. ... It has been many decades since this part of the state experienced a cyclone," Queensland Premier David Crisafulli stated, underscoring the unique threat posed by Cyclone Alfred.
Currently located approximately 345 kilometers east of Brisbane and 315 kilometers east of the Gold Coast, Cyclone Alfred is predicted to reach the coast overnight on Thursday, March 6, 2025, as it takes aim at the Queensland capital. Destructive wind gusts up to 155 kph (96 mph) are expected to intensify from Thursday afternoon, with the cyclone anticipated to make landfall as a Category 2 storm early on Friday morning.
Millions of residents along Australia’s eastern coast are preparing for the potential impact of this historic storm, which carries the strength equivalent to at least a Category 1 Atlantic hurricane. Emergency services have expressed grave concerns about flooding, with officials predicting total rainfall could reach as high as 800 mm. The Bureau of Meteorology warns of life-threatening flash floods, especially as the storm coincides with high tides.
Several neighborhoods prone to flooding are already the focus of evacuation orders. Queensland Premier Crisafulli has called on residents to heed evacuation advice, emphasizing, "If you are in a storm tide zone or you're in an area where you know there is riverine flooding, you really need to think about your evacuation plan now." His warning reflects the urgency of the situation, particularly with significant storm surges expected.
State authorities have established numerous sandbag depots across Brisbane to help residents protect their homes. Demand has been unprecedented, with about 74,000 sandbags distributed over just the last two days. The Brisbane city council has opened four additional depots to cope with the enormous number of people preparing for what they fear could be devastating flooding.
For residents like Alice Dent, who moved to her riverfront unit just one month ago, the approach of Cyclone Alfred is alarming. "I think everyone’s pretty traumatized from ’22, like everyone remembers it very vividly – I don’t think anyone wants a repeat of the flooding from last year," she remarked at one of the sandbag locations. The preparation efforts have sparked long lines, with residents spending hours awaiting supplies to protect not only their homes but also those of friends and neighbors.
Experts are particularly focused on the potential danger posed by storm surges and coastal erosion. Darrell Strauss, a coastal management researcher at Griffith University, noted, "There are areas where storm surge is the biggest problem, and then there are areas where high waves and coastal erosion and inundation from the sea directly due to the waves are significant risks." With many people reporting similar weather patterns reminiscent of the flooding experienced during 2022, anxiety is growing.
Despite the chilling predictions, community action is visible. Residents are banding together to prepare for the worst, proving their resilience amid treacherous forecasts. Volunteers and neighbors are working side by side, ensuring each household has the necessary supplies. Queenslanders have been known for their ability to handle disasters effectively, and this time is no different.
The cyclone impacts will extend beyond immediate threats of wind and rain, as schools are closing, sporting events are canceled, and public transportation halts on Thursday and Friday. A total of 122 schools across New South Wales will also close, aiming to prioritize student safety.
Flight cancellations from Qantas have begun, with more expected as the cyclone approaches. The sporting community faces disruption as well, with events being called off, signaling the storm's widespread impact on daily life.
Emergency services are urging residents to stay vigilant, stock up on supplies, and closely monitor weather updates. A state of emergency has been declared, and warnings issued for coastal regions as communities brace for the possibility of life-altering weather conditions.
With the looming threat of Cyclone Alfred, Brisbane lies on the brink of what may soon become one of its most significant environmental challenges to date. The coming days will determine the storm's exact impact and test the mettle of its residents once again as they prepare to face whatever it may bring.