Residents across southeastern Queensland and northern New South Wales brace for Cyclone Alfred's imminent arrival as preparations intensify. Classified as a category two storm, Alfred threatens to bring damaging winds, torrential rainfall, and enormous tides, prompting widespread school closures, transport cancellations, and urgent evacuation directives.
Tropical Cyclone Alfred is set to make landfall late on Thursday, March 6, or during the early hours of March 7, with meteorologists forecasting winds of up to 130 kilometers per hour. The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) warns of significant storm surges and rainfall totals exceeding 800 millimeters, raising immediate concerns for flooding and safety.
Queensland Premier David Crisafulli has confirmed the closure of more than 600 state schools on March 6 and 7, emphasizing the importance of jeopardizing young lives. “Schools will be closed in the impacted area tomorrow and Friday,” said Crisafulli. North Stradbroke and Moreton Bay islands will supervise schools but remain open for supervision. Meanwhile, over 100 schools have already shut their doors across northern New South Wales from Tweed Heads to Yamba. The New South Wales Department of Education advised families to keep their children at home for the next three days as the storm approaches.
Sports leagues are also radically disrupted, with AFL and NRL games rescheduled or postponed due to safety concerns. Thursday night’s AFL season opener between the Brisbane Lions and Geelong Cats has been shifted, and other matches, including the Gold Coast Suns match and the NRL clash between the Dolphins and Rabbitohs, have been relocated or canceled to avoid potential danger.
The entertainment sector isn't immune, with the American rock band Green Day canceling their concert at CBUS Stadium on March 5, urging fans to prioritize their safety. “Stay safe out there!” they advised.
Numerous businesses across Queensland are preparing to close as the cyclone approaches. Libraries, community halls, golf courses, pools, and other public facilities are expected to shutter beginning March 6. The government has also advised locals to stock up on essentials, as supermarket restocking efforts ramp up to meet increased demand.
Air transportation across Queensland and northern New South Wales is also heavily impacted. While airports will remain open, major airlines are advising passengers to check flight statuses and offering flexibility for those scheduled to travel during the cyclone. Many flights, especially to and from Ballina, have already been canceled.
Public transport services have ground to a halt, with all major bus and train services ceasing operations from March 5. Brisbane CityCat and ferry services were suspended earlier to take necessary precautions.
Local governments across Queensland have issued warnings, emphasizing the importance of staying indoors. “If you are driving on the road during gale-force winds, anything can happen,” warned Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner, cautioning residents from venturing out during the storm.
The dire conditions have led to voluntary evacuations on Stradbroke Island, with authorities door-knocking homes to alert residents on the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast. Areas deemed at the highest risk include homes most susceptible to flooding; estimates indicate up to 20,000 properties could be affected. This has driven local councils to suggest plans to evacuate.
Acting Police Commissioner Shane Chelepy reiterated the importance of safeguarding lives during this unpredictable time. “If you are advised to leave your premises, please heed this advice,” he warned, as emergency services stood ready to assist if necessary.
The presence of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) may help manage safety and logistical concerns. Federal Emergency Management Minister Jenny McAllister noted the ADF’s involvement could be instrumental and highlighted discussions about potential assistance from the state governments. “We are prepared, and we’re asking Queenslanders to do the same,” said Premier Crisafulli, acknowledging the challenges faced by many residents unfamiliar with cyclone impacts.
Warnings of flash flooding and heavy rainfall have officials urging communities to take action. BoM meteorologists warned of flooding risks, stating, “Several hundreds of millimeters of rain is possible within six hours, which could lead to life-threatening flash flooding.” Severe cyclone impacts are anticipated, increasing the demand for emergency supplies, including resilience resources and sandbags for residents.
Residents are encouraged to secure homes and belongings, as high winds and rising sea levels look set to create treacherous conditions. Police have started to implement road closures around Brisbane as strong winds are expected to ripple across the area.
Methods of preparing for the storm have started to materialize, with local councils distributing sandbags to communities at risk. Councils are delivering sandpacks and advice to residents, countering against those who take advantage of this situation by reselling the bags online.
Looking at Cyclone Alfred's unique path, experts have noted it’s part of unusual weather events currently impacting Australia—combining with two other cyclones forming within the same period. Its progress will significantly shape upcoming challenges for residents of southeastern Queensland and northern New South Wales.
Local emergency services, alongside community support teams, continue to monitor the situation closely, deploying rapid response units prepared to address flooding issues as rainfall intensifies and winds strengthen.
Authorities are encouraging residents to stay informed through emergency broadcasts. ABC Emergency Radio is providing constant updates for listeners, ensuring all individuals are aware of necessary precautions and developments. Citizens should create contingency plans, keeping emergency contacts readily available, especially for those living within low-lying areas vulnerable to flooding.
With the cyclone looming, both Queensland and New South Wales are preparing for the worst, turning their devices to weather alerts and heeding emergency advice as Tropical Cyclone Alfred approaches.