Tropical Cyclone Alfred is expected to make landfall near Brisbane later this week, with certain parts of Queensland and northern New South Wales bracing for severe weather conditions. The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) has warned communities to prepare as the cyclone approaches, predicting intense winds, rainfall, and potential flooding across the affected regions.
According to experts, the cyclone, currently moving over the Coral Sea and expected to reach the Queensland coast around Thursday, is likely to produce flash flooding, river floods, and damaging winds. "If major flooding occurs, people may be asked to evacuate their homes," stated Dean Storey, assistant commissioner for the NSW SES. With multiple catchments already listed for moderate to major flood risks, authorities are urging residents to be proactive.
The effects of Alfred will begin to be felt as early as Tuesday, with expected damaging winds and large surf impacting coastal regions. On Sunday morning, the cyclone was positioned about 350 km northeast of Bundaberg as a category three system and is anticipated to weaken to category two soon thereafter. It is projected to move south, maintaining its intensity, with predictions of it turning westward by mid-week.
Southern Queensland is already experiencing repercussions from the cyclone’s approach, with coastal communities bracing for hazardous surf and strong winds. Notably, camping on K'gari (Fraser Island) has been halted, with the Queensland parks department advising visitors to vacate before worsening conditions ensue.
“Alfred is forecast to make landfall over southeast QLD next week,” explained Thomas Hinterdorfer from Higgins Storm Chasing, foreseeing intense weather scenarios from Wednesday onwards as model predictions suggest increased likelihood of landfall. Residents and local businesses are preparing for potentially damaging surf conditions and heavy rainfall.
Preparations for potential evacuations are becoming increasingly necessary as the cyclone advances. Storey added, "We are asking the community to take steps now to prepare themselves, their families, and their pets. Know where you'll go if you need to evacuate.” With many catchments at risk, areas like the Tweed and Rous River, Richmond River, and others are keeping residents alert.
The Bureau of Meteorology has frequently updated forecasts, stating, "The best advice is to keep up-to-date with warnings and the expected tracks of the cyclone.” Their forecasts indicate the cyclone will likely cause severe coastal hazards for southern Queensland and northeast New South Wales over the week. Authorities are closely observing Alfred’s path, highlighting the need for vigilance as the forecasts develop.
From Rockhampton down to the Gold Coast, all eyes are on Tropical Cyclone Alfred as preparations ramp up. Past experiences remind residents of the serious impacts cyclones can deliver, with local leaders encouraging readiness and caution. The potential for storm surges along the coast has increased, with abnormally high tides expected, creating dangerous beach conditions.
Residents are advised to act with caution, ensuring they have supplies and emergency plans ready, especially for households near flood-prone areas.
With the cyclone's unpredictable nature, the best approach remains staying informed. The community is urged to monitor local news and the Bureau of Meteorology for updated forecasts. Southeast Queensland has not faced such adverse weather events for decades, making it imperative for all to heed warnings as Alfred approaches.
Overall, this cyclone poses significant risks to both Queensland's immediate and northern New South Wales coastal regions. The upcoming days are likely to prove challenging, with residents advised to remain vigilant, and authorities maintaining constant readiness as the cyclone inches its way toward the coast.