Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred is currently making its way inland across South East Queensland, leaving behind significant destruction on the Queensland and New South Wales coasts. The cyclone, originally rated as Category 2, has now been downgraded as it continues on its path, relentlessly bringing heavy rainfall across the region from Saturday evening through Sunday. The Bureau of Meteorology has issued severe weather warnings as forecasts indicate possible rainfall totals exceeding 500 mm over the next 48 hours.
The storm caused substantial coastal erosion, particularly impacting Park Beach in Coffs Harbour, where photographer Louise Kennerley captured the aftermath, illustrating the sheer force of nature at work. While Coffs Harbour is no longer under severe weather warnings, it is bracing for additional heavy rain and thunderstorms today.
Brisbane Airport has reopened after facing substantial disruptions, but many flights have been canceled, primarily due to the adverse weather conditions. According to the airport’s latest communications, all domestic flights scheduled for departure before 7 AM today were canceled, with nearly half of the flights before 8 AM also being scrapped. Three international flights faced cancellations this morning, and travelers are advised to contact their respective airlines for up-to-date information on their bookings. Meanwhile, Airtrain services to Brisbane Airport are expected to resume operations on March 10.
Major flood warnings have been issued for several rivers, including the Clarence River at Grafton, Ulmarra, and Maclean, as heavy rains cause the river levels to swell dangerously. The Bureau of Meteorology reported, "Moderate flooding is occurring at Grafton, where major flooding is possible from late Sunday morning." The Clarence River was recorded at 4.23 metres and rising this morning, with forecasts indicating it could reach the major flood level of 5.4 metres by late morning.
Residents of Lismore have been warned as well; the Wilsons River could exceed the major flooding level of 9.7 metres today if rainfall continues at its current intensity. On March 8, the river levels peaked at 9.33 metres, leading to moderate flooding, with severe impacts expected to renew as heavy rains persist.
Across the wider South East Queensland region, approximately 320,000 homes are currently without power, severely impacting nearly every community from the Gold Coast to Brisbane. Damaging winds have been reported, with gusts exceeding 100 km/h across multiple locations including Redcliffe and Moreton Bay.
The Bureau of Meteorology indicated significant rainfall, predicting six-hourly totals between 80 and 130 mm from Saturday night to Sunday, and assessing the potential for dangerous flash flooding as conditions evolve. They reported, "Heavy rainfall, which may lead to flash flooding, is possible today about parts of the Northern Rivers, Mid North Coast and eastern parts of the Northern Tablelands," with estimated total rainfall between 100 mm and 150 mm expected.
The people of Northern NSW are anxiously waiting for the worst of the storm. Meteorologist Christie Johnson warned, "It is only just starting from a flooding perspective because for many places, Sunday is going to be the wettest day, or maybe even going well beyond to the start of next week." The alert may encourage people to remain diligent as the risk of flooding remains imminent.
For those within the Tweed Shire Council area, residents have been placed under boil water alerts until the council can guarantee the quality of drinking water compromised due to cyclone damage. Areas such as Terranora and Banora Point are included, with cautions to boil water for consumption and hygiene purposes, adding to the overall concern and strain on the community.
The weather isn’t easing, with Toowoomba experiencing strong winds with gusts measured at 95 km/h and substantial rainfall expected to intensify, leading to flash flooding potential. Parts of Brisbane are already forecasted to receive over 100 mm of rain today, with some coastal areas potentially experiencing even greater totals up to 200 mm.
Flood releases from the North Pine Dam have commenced early this morning as precautionary measures to manage rising water levels. The preliminary report stated the releases started at 3 AM AEST due to significant rainfall accumulation, calling for nearby residents to stay clear of fast-flowing water and alerting them of the hazardous conditions.
The ex-cyclone’s reach has even affected the travel plans of passengers aboard the Royal Caribbean’s Quantum of the Seas, who found themselves stranded at sea for several extra days. Originally slated to dock on March 7, the ship was sent back to Noumea for safety reasons as the cyclone approached, with plans now to allow the ship to return to Brisbane on March 10 instead. The cruise line is compensatively covering flight changes for guests due to the delay.
The storm has taken its toll beyond mere inconvenience; tragically, reports confirm the death of a 61-year-old man who succumbed to floodwaters near Dorrigo, New South Wales, underscoring the severe risk posed by natural disasters of this magnitude. Authorities have urged residents to heed safety warnings, prepare for possible evacuation, and remain informed as the situation continues to develop.
Amidst the havoc wreaked by ex-tropical cyclone Alfred, the resilience of communities is rising to the fore. Premier David Crisafulli reported collaboration among thousands of energy workers who are working diligently to restore power to affected homes, emphasizing the importance of safety and vigilance. “The worst of the cyclone was unknown for South East Queensland, but people responded remarkably,” he said, as residents brace for the adverse weather to continue well through the start of the week.
This natural disaster reflects the reality of climate-related challenges faced by communities, as Queensland and its beautiful coastline receive urgent and sustained attention and support during challenging times.