Residents across parts of New South Wales (NSW) and Queensland are grappling with the aftermath of ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred, which made landfall late Saturday night, March 8, 2025, between Brisbane and Maroochydore. The cyclone, which had stalled just offshore for several days, has transformed back to a low pressure system, yet it continues to wreak havoc with rain and flooding across the region.
Dean Narramore, meteorologist from the Bureau of Meteorology, confirmed the cyclone’s impact, emphasizing the necessity for residents to remain vigilant. "Despite the cyclone having weakened, residents need to remain vigilant," he stated. The cyclone triggered heavy rainfall warnings extending from the Northern Rivers and Mid-North Coast of NSW, with widespread rain totals expected between 50 and 150 millimeters, and isolated areas potentially seeing up to 400 millimeters.
The situation escalated when flooding rapidly affected communities. Major flooding warnings were confirmed for multiple regions. By Sunday morning, the Wilsons River at Lismore peaked at 9.31 meters, prompting concerns about levee breaches. While it had since receded to 8.95 meters, the flood risk remained high.
Over the past week, rainfall totals have reached staggering amounts. Dorrigo reported 754mm and Meldrum recorded 697mm, with the rain forecast to linger near the coast, posing risks for flash flooding. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese warned residents about the risks involved, stating, "[The situation] remains very serious due to flash-flooding and heavy winds. Heavy rainfall, damaging wind gusts, and coastal surf impacts are expected to continue over coming days."
With communities already reeling from the flooding, evacuation orders were issued across various areas including parts of the Northern Rivers. Authorities had warned residents of Ulmarra, Great Marlow, and even areas of Grafton to prepare for possible evacuation, citing rising flood levels.
Tragedy struck as the body of 61-year-old Tom Cook was recovered after being swept away by floodwaters near Dorrigo on March 7. Albanese expressed condolences during his address on March 9, stating, “Tragically, last night, it was confirmed [of the] death of Tom Cook. Our thoughts are with his loved ones and the community at this heartbreaking time.”
Meanwhile, the NSW State Emergency Service (SES) has been working around the clock. By Sunday morning, they had responded to over 915 flood-related incidents and executed 29 flood rescues, including responding to assistance calls from those trapped by rising waters. Flood warnings continue to indicate urgency across the state, with approximately 14,600 people under emergency warnings.
Compounding the situation, 16,000 homes and businesses across northern NSW were reported without power as of Sunday, with the deluge likely to linger for several more days. Over 320,000 homes faced similar outages across Queensland.
The impact of ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred has also led to significant disruptions, with servicemen from the ADF actively engaged to assist. Unfortunately, 13 personnel were injured following the rollover of two army trucks near Lismore on Saturday. Defence Minister Richard Marles provided reassurance, stating, “They are there to help our fellow Australians. That’s what each of these 32 personnel were doing yesterday in support of those who were feeling the brunt of ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred.”
Regarding response and recovery, energy minister Penny Sharpe advised residents to remain cautious, urging, “You may think it is OK to go back home, but until you are told to do so, please don’t. There are safety issues ... not just about the level of the water. There are issues like live electricity wires, debris, [and] dangerous areas.”
Despite diminishing cyclone conditions, authorities maintain flood preparations as the severe weather restrictions hold for affected areas. The SES has activated more than 21 evacuation centres to accommodate displaced persons, with hundreds seeking shelter from rising waters.
Preparations include deploying generators to restore power services, the focus on clearing roads and providing risks to assure safety across flood-affected regions. With more rain predicted, communities face continued challenges as they navigate post-cyclone conditions, marked by constant monitoring of river levels and emergency statuses.
Residents are reminded to listen to local authorities, ensuring compliance with safety mandates and to report any emergencies directly. Support continues for the efforts surrounding recovery, and as floodwaters recede, careful measures will sustain rebuilding efforts. The community spirit remains engaged, with volunteers and emergency services stepping up across affected areas.
While the immediate weather situation may evolve, the need for vigilance and preparation remains at the forefront as New South Wales grapples with the aftermath of ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred.