Cyclone Alfred Sets Its Sights on South-East Queensland, Prompting Quick Preparations and Evacuations
Tropical Cyclone Alfred, currently classified as a Category 2 storm, is headed directly for the coastline of Queensland, raising alarms among residents and authorities. On Tuesday, March 4, 2025, at 4:30 PM AEST, the storm was recorded to be about 510 kilometers east of Brisbane, moving westwards at 12 kilometers per hour with sustained winds of 95 km/h and gusts reaching up to 130 km/h. Coastal assessments indicate the cyclone may make landfall late Thursday, March 6, or early Friday, March 7. The storm poses serious risks, with forecasts predicting wind gusts up to 155 km/h and widespread heavy rainfall across the region.
QueenslandPremier David Crisafulli emphasized the urgency of preparation. "There is still an element of the population… the preparations you put in place make a world of difference," he said, underscoring the unusually long gap since the last hurricane significantly impacted the area. The cyclone is expected to affect hundreds of kilometers of coastline, from Double Island Point north of the Sunshine Coast to just north of Grafton, New South Wales.
Authorities are working around the clock to prepare the community. Brisbane City Council has distributed over 74,000 sandbags to help residents mitigate potential flooding. Public areas, especially low-lying coastal zones, are being closely monitored as officials warn residents about the dangers associated with storm surges and flash flooding.
Specifically, Bond University located on the Gold Coast, has finalized its emergency plan. Classes and services will be available until noon on Wednesday, March 5, but all non-essential students and staff are expected to leave campus by 12 PM with the university set to close completely at 3:00 PM. A note from officials stated, "Safety is our top priority…" reassuring students and staff about the preparations being made.
Students were urged to keep updated through the university’s communications on weather conditions and safety protocols. Scheduled classes, student services, and necessary operations will continue until circumstances deem otherwise. A separate message will instruct residential students about specific arrangements for their accommodation during the storm.
At the same time, Queensland's State Emergency Service (SES) has been proactive, responding to 800 requests for assistance just on Tuesday, based on the inclining weather forecasts. Acting Police Commissioner Shane Chelepy advised residents, "The next 48 hours are..." pointing to the importance of acting quickly to enter safer grounds.
The looming cyclone's impact stretches beyond students’ campus life, affecting local sports events and businesses as well. Major cancellations have been announced, including the Brisbane Lions' AFL season opener and Green Day's concert on the Gold Coast, as the cyclone presents severe weather risks.
Locals are struggling to secure sandbags and supplies, leading to remarkable scenes as residents formed long lines outside distribution centers. Jan Cadogan, 77, described the chaotic environment, stating, "People are reduced to animals because they're absolutely surging forward…" High competition for limited supplies certainly presents challenges to preparedness. It reflects the heightened tension as many approach this storm.
Brisbane's port and ferries have been closed preemptively, allowing for safety measures as the storm draws closer. Transport providers are assisting affected customers by offering flexible cancellation policies for flights and travel plans through this week, acknowledging the anticipated disruptions.
Based on the storm’s current path, Moreton Bay Council is advising residents, especially those living near the waterways, to make arrangements to stay with family or friends. Emergency refuge locations are being opened to support vulnerable individuals and provide shelter from the impending storm.
Looking forward, predictions for rainfall have also escalated, estimating between 80 to 180 millimeters (with localized areas potentially receiving up to 400 millimeters), leading forecasters to warn of potentially life-threatening flash flooding.
Emergency services have proactively placed warnings from Double Island Point to Grafton as preparations and safety measures intensify. The deteriorated conditions across South-East Queensland today reflect the cyclone's impact as it inches closer, with storm tides anticipated to rise dangerously high during key times over the next few days.
Residents are reminded to monitor local news sources for real-time updates as the administration remains vigilant. Following local authority recommendations is integral to ensuring everyone’s safety during this cyclone event.
With storm preparations picking up pace, many are also reminded to inspect their emergency kits, secure loose belongings, and stay informed through established communication channels. The Bureau of Meteorology link provides detailed weather warnings and forecasts, assisting those affected to plan accordingly.
The next 48 hours are pivotal, and officials urge all to act with awareness and caution as Cyclone Alfred approaches.