Residents of southeastern Queensland are bracing for Cyclone Alfred, which is expected to cross the coast late this week, marking the first direct hit by any cyclone since ex-Tropical Cyclone Zoe struck in 1974. Forecasted to reach land as either a Category 1 or 2 storm, Alfred poses significant risks, including strong winds and heavy rainfall.
The cyclone formed nine days ago in the Coral Sea, initially tracking away from the Australian coast. It picked up intensity as it moved south, reaching severe Category 4 status east of Mackay, but has since weakened as it entered cooler waters. Current models indicate the storm is set to regain strength as it approaches the Queensland coast.
According to the Bureau of Meteorology, Cyclone Alfred is now on course to make landfall between K'gari (formerly Fraser Island) and the Gold Coast, potentially affecting densely populated areas like Brisbane. Local officials, including Redland Local Disaster Management Group’s deputy chair Julie Talty, have urged residents to prepare for the cyclone and evacuate if necessary. "Council teams are on the ground assisting with work such as clearing drains and attending to downed trees," she stated.
Emergency services have advised residents on islands and coastal communities to prepare now, as ferry services to these areas will likely cease operations soon. The last ferries to Coochiemudlo Island and North Stradbroke Island will leave on March 4, and services may not resume until March 7, depending on weather conditions.
Evacuation is particularly emphasized for those who feel unsafe at home or live near the coast. It’s advised to fill vehicles with fuel, secure outdoor items, and plan where to stay if evacuation is necessary. Minister Jennifer Ann explained, "Leaving early is safer than waiting. Make sure you have enough medicine for at least one week and plan for powered medical equipment. Some local ferry services may be canceled, so checking with transport providers is key."
Premier David Crisafulli articulated the severity of the event, stating, "This is certainly an eventthat doesn’t happen a lot for this part of the state. I am asking Queenslanders to be ready for it."
Wind gusts from Cyclone Alfred are projected to reach up to 164 km/h, which can lead to widespread damage to structures, uprooting trees, and loss of power. The cyclone also brings the risk of flash flooding and river flooding as it moves inland. The Bureau of Meteorology has issued flood watches for river catchments extending from Maryborough down to the Northern Rivers area of New South Wales.
Residents are reminded to check their emergency kits and prepare their properties. It is recommended to cover windows with plywood or mattresses and organize individual cyclone plans. Sandbagging stations are established across the area, encouraging residents to prepare for potential flooding.
Schools across southeastern Queensland remain open for now, but there's a "very strong" likelihood they may close as the storm approaches. Already, shipping operations at Mooloolaba have ceased, and cruise ships are seeking alternate ports. Also, Marine Rescue Queensland has issued warnings to boaties to stay home, suspend fishing trips, and avoid waters heavily affected by the cyclone.
Alfred's erratic path, typical for cyclones forming over the Coral Sea, has made forecasting challenging for meteorologists. Winds steering the cyclone have shifted recently, and as it moves over warmer waters, there’s the potential for it to regain strength. Dr. Hamish Ramsay from the CSIRO highlights the significance of rainfall, noting, "The highest mortality from tropical cyclones is associated with the rainfall, not wind speed. This could lead to serious flooding if the cyclone slows as it approaches the coast." Although the cyclone is currently classified as Category 1, it is anticipated to strengthen before making landfall.
Residents have been encouraged to stay updated with the latest forecasts and preparation advice. Cyclone Alfred is set to influence the region significantly, prompting all communities within its vicinity to remain vigilant. The government remains committed to ensuring public safety and providing support where needed as communities confront the imminent cyclone.
Tropical Cyclone Alfred's track map, regularly updated by the Bureau of Meteorology, reflects the complexity of predicting cyclone behavior. With potentially dangerous weather looming, residents are urged to take seriously all warnings and prepare accordingly for the impacts of this historically significant weather event.