A powerful tropical cyclone is heading straight for the Australian coast, bringing with it intense winds, heavy rainfall, and potential flash flooding.
Tropical Cyclone Alfred is expected to make landfall between the Sunshine Coast and Brisbane on Thursday, with the last cyclone to hit this area being over 50 years ago.
What You Need to Know
The Queensland Premier, David Crisafulli, has urged residents to be prepared, saying "it's not impossible, it is unusual, and it's essential that people be ready for it."
Alfred is currently a category-two system, with winds of 95 km/h and gusts of up to 130 km/h.
The cyclone is already causing significant erosion and 15m high waves along the coast, with coastal erosion expected to continue over the next few days.
Preparing for the Worst
The Bureau of Meteorology is warning of long periods of damaging winds, which can cause trees to come down and property damage.
Heavy rainfall is also expected, which may lead to dangerous and life-threatening flash flooding.
A flood watch is in place for rivers from Maryborough to the NSW border, with the bureau watching for major rises in several rivers.
Staying Safe
Premier Crisafulli's main concern is flooding, which could affect over three million people.
He has urged residents to compile important documents, have tinned food and water, and tie down any loose items outside.
Generators have been sent to Bay Island communities, and residents are facing the tough choice of whether to evacuate.
Events Affected
The cyclone coincides with the AFL season opener in Brisbane, with the league monitoring the situation and adhering to government advice.
The NRL's Dolphins and Rabbitohs are also scheduled to play in Brisbane on Friday night.
NSW SES has urged residents to prepare for damaging winds, large surf, and heavy rainfall, with major river rises and flash flooding expected from Wednesday.
What to Do
If you're in the affected area, make sure to:
- Compile important documents and have a plan in place
- Stock up on tinned food and water
- Tie down any loose items outside
- Stay informed about the latest weather updates and warnings
- Follow evacuation instructions from authorities if necessary
Stay safe, and stay tuned for further updates on Tropical Cyclone Alfred.
