Tropical Cyclone Alfred is poised to make landfall on the southeastern Queensland coast, with significant potential for destruction. The cyclone intensified to Category 2 strength early on March 3, 2025, and is currently located approximately 560 kilometers east of Brisbane, advancing on its path to bring high winds and heavy rainfall.
According to the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM), Alfred is expected to cross the coast late Thursday or early Friday, March 7, 2025. With damaging winds and the threat of severe flooding, it's the first tropical cyclone to impact the region since Cyclone Wanda made landfall near Maryborough on January 24, 1974, leading to devastating consequences.
Forecasts indicate gales with winds gusting up to 120 km/h (75 mph) will develop along coastal areas stretching from Double Island Point to Yamba by Wednesday afternoon. These conditions may escalate overnight, prompting coastal towns and communities to brace for potential destruction.
“We’re expecting fairly wet catchments and wet soils, we can expect to see widespread, moderate to major flooding,” stated BOM meteorologist Jonathan Howe. He emphasized the importance of readiness, especially as rainfall totals are predicted to reach between 200 to 400 millimeters across many areas. The risk of life-threatening flooding is significant as the cyclone approaches.
Matthew Gray, storm chaser and aspiring meteorologist from Byron Shire, shared insights about the risk involved, noting, “Current rainfall accumulation models suggest between 300-800mm across the Byron Shire and the Northern Rivers.” With concerning mentions of landslides and infrastructure damage, Gray advised residents to prepare for prolonged power outages and to ready their generators.
Alfred's anticipated landfall site lies between Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast, resulting in uncertainty about the exact impact but reaffirming warnings from local authorities. “The preparations you put in place will make a world of difference,” cautioned Queensland Premier David Crisafulli. He urged residents to take the cyclone seriously as its path narrows toward densely populated regions.
Past cyclones serve as reminders of the devastating effects tropical storms can have on the area. Cyclone Wanda, though relatively weak, triggered floods resulting in 16 fatalities and extensive damage across Brisbane. Over the span of five days, the city received rainfall between 500 and 900 millimeters, causing the Brisbane River to overflow and inundate vast neighborhoods.
“Damaging to destructive wind gusts are expected, and flooding along with the coastal hazards is already developing,” stated another BOM spokesperson. With gale force winds forecast, areas near the cyclone are warned about hazardous surf and unusually high tides, especially as the cyclone draws nearer.
Crisafulli’s urgent message to the public entreats individuals to accept the seriousness of the impending cyclone. “This is a very rare event for south-east Queensland but it's not unprecedented. I want you to take it seriously,” he said, reinforcing the need for emergency preparedness.
Emergency strategies have been outlined for those facing potential cyclone impacts. Residents are encouraged to ready their emergency kits, choose higher ground for animals, secure outdoor valuables, and stay informed about local alerts through sources like the BOM and emergency services.
Flooding alerts extend beyond Queensland; the impacts are also expected to reach northeast New South Wales, where vigilance is equally required. Residents have been instructed to avoid flooded areas and prepare contingency plans, as transport routes and communication services may become disrupted.
Local councils are mobilized to assist residents with sandbagging and emergency communication, as community support is integral during such disasters. Preparing for flooding by cleaning drains and elevates valuables can lessen the potential toll on properties.
Authorities estimate significant rainfall leading to flash and riverine flooding following the cyclone’s landfall, as heavy rain is common with cyclones of this magnitude. Residents are collecting sandbags from local stations and preparing evacuation plans should the need arise.
With preparations underway, those living along the coasts should be aware of the rapidly changing conditions, as Alfred approaches the shores of southern Queensland more locked. The caution and vigilance of residents may mitigate damage and protect lives as Tropical Cyclone Alfred draws near.
While the cyclone poses severe risks, it serves as both urgent warning and opportunity to prepare communities for the impact of such natural disasters.