Tropical Cyclone Alfred is posing significant threats to Queensland’s coastal regions, bringing strong winds and hazardous surf as it approaches the mainland. Currently classified as a Category Three cyclone, Alfred is anticipated to impact areas stretching from Central Queensland down to the New South Wales border over the weekend.
Residents are being warned to prepare for dangerous coastal conditions, including powerful swells, coastal erosion, and high tides, especially as the cyclone approaches. According to the Bureau of Meteorology, Alfred previously intensified to a severe Category Four storm but has since returned to Category Three, making its future movements increasingly uncertain.
"At this stage, landfall is looking less likely," said senior meteorologist Jonathan How, noting how Alfred is now situated approximately 750 kilometers northeast of Mackay. Although it may avoid direct landfall, the storm is still expected to generate hazardous conditions across the Queensland coast from Townsville to K'gari. Waves reaching up to 2.5 meters and swells of three meters are forecasted, compounded by strong winds gusting up to 220 kilometers per hour.
State Disaster Coordinator, Deputy Commissioner Shane Chelepy, is urging residents to exercise caution. "People should avoid swimming and surfing at beaches along these watch zones, or walking near surf-exposed areas, to avoid being caught in dangerous conditions," he stated. This advice is particularly pertinent as life-threatening conditions could arise due to the surf, which is expected to heighten with approaching high tides over the weekend.
Alerts for minor flooding and coastal erosion have been issued, prompting locals to take protective measures. Many coastal towns are coordinating efforts to manage the potential fallout from the cyclone. Bundaberg police acting inspector Danny Hess emphasized the urgency of public safety: "We want people to stay off the water — no surfing, no swimming, no boating. We don't want any incidents," he stressed, underscoring the cyclone's ability to cause severe disruptions.
Along the coast, preparations are also ramping up. The Local Disaster Management Group (LDMG) for the Bundaberg Region has moved to a state of heightened readiness, preparing for increased wind gusts and abnormally high tides, which could potentially exceed the year’s previous highs. Mayor Helen Blackburn warned, "Now is the time to clear your backyards. Make sure anything loose is put away to avoid potential projectiles." Sandbagging efforts have been activated to assist residents at risk of flooding.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding Alfred's potential landfall, experts believe the cyclone will remain offshore, likely tracking parallel to the Queensland coast over the coming days. According to meteorologist Jonathan How, "It will become slow-moving over open water and, even in the middle of next week, it is still forecast to be a category two system, but well off the south-east Queensland coast." This trend suggests Queensland may be spared the worst impacts if the current forecast holds true.
Community members are encouraged to stay informed about weather updates and heed local authorities' warnings. Sunshine Coast Disaster and Emergency coordinator Jason Membrey advised residents to be prepared: "The most important advice we can give to our community is to heed lifeguard and volunteer lifesaver warnings, and read the written safety boards at beaches." Preparedness includes keeping emergency kits ready and clearing areas prone to flooding of debris and loose items.
Local parks and public assets facing the ocean have been closed as officials monitor conditions closely. Surfers and beachgoers are advised to stay vigilant and avoid risk, especially as forecasts indicate tides could lead to minor flooding, particularly on the Sunshine and Gold coasts.
With Cyclone Alfred being labeled as both dangerous and unpredictable, it is imperative for Queensland residents to remain alert and take the cyclone's threats seriously. The situation continues to develop, and authorities are committed to keeping the public informed of any changes to the cyclone's path or intensity.
While the cyclone's peak intensity has lessened, the potential for coastal hazards like flooding and severe wind conditions persists. Residents should heed the warnings issued by emergency services and prioritize their safety during this time of developing weather events. Stay tuned for continued updates as Tropical Cyclone Alfred makes its way toward Queensland.