Tropical Cyclone Alfred is projected to cross the south-east Queensland coast later this week, bringing destructive winds and the potential for life-threatening flooding. This weather system could make landfall between the Gold Coast and the southern regions of the Wide Bay as a category two cyclone, marking the first tropical cyclone to directly impact Queensland's southern coast in fifty years.
According to the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM), Tropical Cyclone Alfred is currently about 465 kilometres northeast of Brisbane, tracking southeast at 13 kilometres per hour. The cyclone is expected to hit the coast on either Thursday or Friday, with warnings issued for areas from Sandy Cape to Grafton. Residential preparations are urged as local authorities work to mitigate the risk of flooding and storm damage.
Queensland Premier David Crisafulli highlighted the unusual nature of Alfred’s approach. “It's an event you don't often see around here, but it is not unprecedented,” he remarked. Crisafulli has advised locals to begin preparations, stressing the possibility of significant rainfall and storm surges, particularly if the cyclone coincides with high tide. “Storm surges are a significant concern, and we are asking people to begin their preparation accordingly,” he stated.
The potential impact of Cyclone Alfred is amplified due to its path over densely populated regions. Areas including Brisbane, the Gold Coast, and Sunshine Coast are expected to experience gales and heavy rain, with forecast rainfall potentially accumulating to between 200 and 700 millimetres over the course of its approach. This could trigger major flooding across more than twenty rivers throughout south-east Queensland and northern New South Wales.
Weather experts indicate the system could produce dangerously high tides and surf conditions, with wave heights reaching the 15-metre mark due to combined sea and swells. Flood watches have been issued, and communities are advised to maintain vigilance as the cyclone draws closer.
For many residents, especially those who have never experienced such severe weather, this is more than just law enforcement – it involves immediate and proactive preparation. The Queensland government has published specific guidance on how to secure homes and personal property, advocating for early action such as clearing debris, reinforcing structures, and gathering emergency supplies.
“People should secure anything outdoors, from garden furniture to chemical containers. Ensure your home maintenance is up-to-date to minimize potential damage,” said BOM meteorologist Jonathan How. Local councils are also actively distributing sandbags to help residents prepare for possible flooding.
For apartment dwellers, preparations may include consulting building managers about flood risks, ensuring emergency supplies are secured, and preventing water damage through additional sandbagging measures at entry points.
Emergency plans are strongly recommendable to families, involving arrangements for shelter during severe weather, evacuation routes, and essentials for three days, including food, water, and first aid supplies.
Tom Mortlock, from the Climate Change Research Centre at the University of NSW, emphasized the heightened risk as more people live along the southern coast. “The probability of impact is lower than northern areas, but the risks are significantly heightened due to population density,” Mortlock explained.
Authorities also urge caution against complacency, noting the potential for rapid fluctuations in the cyclone's intensity and impact. Wind gusts up to 125 kilometres per hour are possible near the cyclone's eye, which could lead to downed trees, power outages, and property damage.
Following the cyclone's anticipated movements, there may also be substantial impacts extending southward to regions including Victora, with environmental conditions expected to support continued rainfall.
Community resilience and preparedness are more important than ever as Queensland gears up to contend with this rare tropical cyclone. Officials are conducting regular assessments and providing updates to keep residents informed on the latest developments concerning Alfred’s path and intensity.
With this week marking the first landfall from a tropical cyclone since Zoe and Wanda struck Queensland’s coastline each forty years ago, the approaching storm has become both a source of concern and a call to action for local communities.