Queensland is bracing for what could be the most serious weather event the region has faced in decades, as Tropical Cyclone Alfred barrels toward its coastline. Expected to strike between Noosa and Brisbane late Thursday evening or early Friday morning, the cyclone is categorized as a level two storm and is predicted to bring destructive winds of up to 130 km/h, alongside heavy rain and severe flooding.
Tuesday's update revealed the cyclone was situated approximately 550 kilometers off the Brisbane coast, moving westward at about 6 km/h. The storm, which is tracking toward one of Australia9s most populated regions, poses threats not only of violent winds but also substantial rainfall. Forecasts predict Brisbane alone could see up to 400 mm of rain, with the Gold Coast likely to receive around 450 mm within just three days. Premiers and meteorologists alike have voiced concern over the flooding impact of the storm, with Premier David Crisafulli stating, "The flooding later in the week will cause the most havoc."
Authorities have begun preparations on all fronts. Brisbane City Council has been distributing tens of thousands of sandbags across various locations, but demand has outstripped supply. Residents like Matthew Formosa have recounted their frustrating experiences attempting to acquire sandbags, with waits exceeding three hours. "There was no real order. It was just like, once they have dumped there, everyone is like vultures," he noted, expressing concern especially for the elderly who struggle with heavy bags.
The anxiety is palpable among residents, with supermarket shelves rapidly emptied as locals prepare for prolonged disruptions. Items like bottled water, pasta, and canned goods have been swept from stores, leaving many outlets struggling to keep their supplies intact. Major retailers Coles and Woolworths are working to boost their inventory but are facing immense challenges. "We have extra deliveries on the roads already, with a focus on boosting our supply," a Coles spokesperson explained.
Transport and travel are also being heavily impacted. Airlines such as Virgin Australia and Qantas have begun offering refunds and flexible flight adjustments for travelers with upcoming reservations through affected regions. Passengers can reschedule their flights to or from Ballina, Brisbane, and Bundaberg without penalty within two weeks of their initial travel date. Adding to the disruption, cruise ships have been rerouted away from Southeast Queensland, with previously scheduled visits to Brisbane canceled.
Educational institutions have not escaped the storm's reach, with schools across impacted areas expected to close Wednesday, March 5. Premier Crisafulli has indicated this decision will be revisited for Thursday as the storm progresses. The closure extends to all beaches from the Sunshine Coast to Byron Bay, and universities are shutting down as well.
Experts warn of the potential for not just strong winds and flooding, but also high tides significantly above normal levels, exacerbated by anticipated heavy rainfall. Sue Oates from the Bureau of Meteorology emphasized the likelihood of riverine flooding, stating, "Three-day rainfall totals for isolated areas could reach up to 700 mm," and underscored the severe risk this poses for local communities.
Brisbane residents are experiencing unease reminiscent of the catastrophic floods from 2011, with many alert to the eeriness around them as they prepare for the impending cyclone. One resident recalled, "There's this feeling like watching a meteor heading to Earth, but being unable to do much but hope it doesn’t hit." Meanwhile, the Queensland Government has dedicated significant resources to support emergency measures, with over 100,000 sandbags prepared and additional orders expected to arrive quickly to meet demand. Overall, around 250,000 sandbags are slated for distribution as communities seek to alleviate the potential for extensive flooding damage.
Local governments are taking steps to communicate effectively with the public. Daily information briefings began days prior to the expected cyclone landfall, instigated by the significant threat posed by Alfred. Authority figures, including Premier Crisafulli, reinforced the need for residents to remain informed and proactive. "One thing I know about Queenslanders is they handle disasters well. We have proven time and again our ability to respond," Crisafulli said.
The situation remains fluid as forecasts evolve and the storm's path is monitored closely. With more than 4 million people presently under alert for potential impacts spanning south-eastern Queensland to northern New South Wales, the community is poised for what could be one of the most significant weather challenges seen since the cessation of cyclonic activity over these regions for over fifty years.
Local authorities continue to stress, as preparations escalate, the importance of readiness, communication, and protecting lives before the cyclone strikes. The days leading up to Alfred’s landfall will prove pivotal as the Queensland community unites against this natural threat, hoping for the best but preparing for the worst.