Residents across southeast Queensland are bracing for the impending impact of Tropical Cyclone Alfred, marking the first cyclone in 51 years to threaten the region. On Wednesday, March 5, 2025, communities near Brisbane began urgent preparations, stacking sandbags and heeding evacuation orders as the cyclone barreled toward Australia’s east coast.
The Bureau of Meteorology reported Tropical Cyclone Alfred was situated 400 kilometers (250 miles) east of Brisbane, tracking westward with sustained winds of 95 kph (59 mph) and gusts reaching 130 kph (81 mph). The cyclone is forecast to make landfall late Thursday, March 6, or early Friday, March 7, near the cities of Brisbane and Gold Coast, which lie 80 kilometers apart.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated his government was taking the rare event seriously, providing 250,000 sandbags to support local preparations, in addition to the 80,000 delivered by the military. “This is a rare event to have a tropical cyclone in... southeast Queensland,” Albanese emphasized.
Brisbane's Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner indicated modeling showed potential flooding risks for up to 20,000 homes, urging residents to prepare their properties and plan evacuation routes. “We are facing the potential of life-threatening flash floods and storm surges,” he warned, pointing to the urgency of the situation.
Across the coastal region, millions were under storm warnings, affecting over 500 kilometers (311 miles) of coastline. Weather forecasts projected rainfall totals potentially reaching 800 mm (31.5 inches), significantly surpassing the March average. “This is likely to lead to life-threatening flash flooding,” the Bureau of Meteorology cautioned.
Many residents are stocking up on essentials as the threat looms. Supermarket shelves have been stripped bare, and sandbags are reportedly short on supply. “If you're unsure whether to stay or leave, it's best to evacuate,” Queensland Premier David Crisafulli advised, particularly for those living close to flood-prone areas.
The cyclone is expected to arrive as a Category 2 storm, with authorities expressing concern about communities along rivers and creeks, especially following the floods experienced by the Northern Rivers region just two years ago. “We hope for the best, but we must prepare for the worst,” New South Wales Premier Chris Minns echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the necessity for caution and preparation.
Preparations intensified as schools and public transport systems began shutting down. On Thursday, March 6, Queensland schools will close, public transport will cease operations, and hospitals will halt non-urgent surgeries. Brisbane's main airports will also suspend activities. A total of 122 schools across northern New South Wales have also canceled classes for the upcoming days.
The Brisbane Broncos rugby league team’s management has been proactive amid the cyclone threats. CEO Dave Donaghy returned to Brisbane from Sydney to oversee the safety of staff and players' families, as many players prepared for their game against the Sydney Roosters scheduled on March 6.
Bree Nikorima, the wife of Dolphins player Kodi Nikorima, criticized the NRL's decision to move the Dolphins vs. Souths match to Sydney, pointing out the lack of support for families left to face the cyclone on their own. “Disgusting,” she posted on social media, detailing her concerns for her family's safety as she navigates her pregnancy and the potential flooding.
The cyclone poses not only physical risks but also emotional tolls on families and communities. Broncos coach Michael Maguire mentioned the importance of communication during such crises, asserting, “We are thinking about everyone up there.”
Evacuations are already underway, particularly for residents on South Stradbroke Island, where 68 individuals were moved to safety on March 4, with continued support from local authorities to evacuate vulnerable populations. Volunteers from various organizations are also assisting those at risk across Brisbane, ensuring they find shelter as the storm approaches.
The incoming cyclone presents multiple dangers, including strong storm surges, erosion, and severe flooding potential. Queensland Premier Crisafulli flagged concerns about the timing of the storm’s landfall, emphasizing the danger of hitting during high tide. The devastation caused by Cyclone Zoe back in 1974 still lingers as authorities remind residents of the severity of these rare weather events.
Brisbane and surrounding regions remain vigilant as they anticipate the effects of Cyclone Alfred. The Australian Defence Force has also been deployed, providing resources and support, ensuring residents have access to necessary supplies and assistance during the emergency. Ensuring community safety during these trying times highlights the collective effort across the state, with officials emphasizing the importance of unity and preparedness as they weather the storm together.
This unprecedented cyclone serves as both a reminder of nature's unpredictability and the need for community resilience. Efforts continue across Queensland as officials work to secure the safety of all residents impacted by Tropical Cyclone Alfred.