Residents of the Lockyer Valley, particularly those living in Grantham, are facing urgent evacuation orders as ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred wreaks havoc across southeastern Queensland. On March 10, 2025, the Lockyer Valley Regional Council warned its citizens to seek higher ground immediately due to dangerous flooding. This follows record rainfalls of over 200mm within two hours, which have resulted in fearful flash floods prompting swift action from local authorities.
Premier David Crisafulli has expressed significant concern for the Lockyer Valley area, stating, "A very serious storm cell is moving in the area and overnight, there were doorknocks... to give them as much warning as possible." This proactive approach aimed at safeguarding the community was evident as emergency services received more than 3,600 calls within 24 hours on March 9-10, establishing it as the largest call volume to the Queensland State Emergency Service (SES) on record.
The deluge has cut off key transportation routes, including the Warrego Highway, which connects Brisbane to Toowoomba, and forced the temporary closure of 463 state schools and numerous independent and Catholic institutions throughout the region. The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has warned residents to stay alert and heed all evacuation warnings.
By 1 pm on March 10, flood sirens sounded across Grantham, leading the council to urge unattended residents to relocate to established evacuation centres, including the Grantham Butter Factory and Gatton Shire Hall. A Lockyer Valley Deputy Mayor Chris Wilson noted, "Residents are advised to prepare to leave. The peak for Grantham is expected to be reached at 5 pm," emphasizing the gravity of the situation.
This catastrophic flooding is reminiscent of the devastating floods of 2011, which claimed 12 lives. Locals are advised against complacency, with many prepared for immediate evacuations thanks to prior warnings. "It’s still pending, but we have never been more prepared. We are taking every precaution," Wilson affirmed. Various swiftwater rescue teams have mobilized to assist those stranded by rising waters.
Reports indicate significant rainfall totals, including 433mm at one site on the Sunshine Coast. Local businesses and supermarkets are disrupted, with Hervey Bay Hospital remaining operational but strained due to the circumstances. The Premier has foretold substantial recovery efforts will ensue, as initial assessments already point to considerable damages across the area.
Further complicates the storm's aftermath, over 200,000 homes are currently without power across Queensland, with the count remaining high as responders navigate treacherous conditions. About 9,800 homes and businesses also lack electricity in NSW, with many subsiding emergency warnings still being active.
Evacuation centres have been established at Laidley State High School, and continued monitoring by local councils accounts for increased water levels, particularly the Glencore Grove gauge, which is expected to surge to 13m. Ongoing risks of flooding are compounded by the ungated dams, with 20 out of 23 currently spilling excess water.
Public transport services across Brisbane are operating at reduced capacity, as roadways remain perilously flooded. "If it’s flooded, forget it," warned Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, reaffirming the importance of safety measures during such natural disasters.
Looking forward, the BOM forecasts continued rain throughout the week, raising alarms for communities under the threat of flooding. Support systems are being arranged; disaster relief payments are being put on hold due to logistical constraints. Nevertheless, help is pouring as federal support and local volunteer efforts are beginning to coalesce.
No one knows what damages will be like once everything has subsided, but the resilience and commitment of Queenslanders is being highlighted through their rapid response, community spirit, and readiness to navigate the storm's passages. The Lockyer Valley community remains on high alert, holding its breath as it faces the very real risks and uncertainties of ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred's immediate aftermath.