Australia's eastern coast is on high alert as Cyclone Alfred has been downgraded to a tropical low, yet it poses a significant flooding risk with over 230,000 homes without power amid severe weather warnings.
Australia Braces for Severe Flooding After Cyclone Alfred Downgrade
Australia Braces for Severe Flooding After Cyclone Alfred Downgrade
Tropical storm expected to bring heavy rainfall and flooding as thousands evacuate in Queensland.
Heavy rainfall is predicted to continue, as authorities caution residents of potential flash flooding from the cyclone's impact. Initially labeled Cyclone Alfred, the storm is now evolving slowly off Bribie Island, moving northward before making landfall around Maroochydore. Wind speeds are forecasted to reach around 85 km/h, less severe than earlier predictions, but the rainfall could exceed 200 mm in just 24 hours.
Meteorologist Miriam Bradbury from the Bureau of Meteorology has indicated that intense rainfall could lead to flash-flooding in low-lying areas, as well as riverine flooding across Queensland and northern New South Wales, where millions are currently in the storm's path. There have already been reports of floods from the cyclone, with authorities searching for a man whose vehicle was swept away by rising waters.
Residents, including Stephen Valentine from Logan city, are taking precautions by stocking up on water and food and creating safe spaces within their homes. Local officials have distributed sandbags to help residents brace for impact as the storm approaches, with public infrastructure severely affected—schools, public transport, and airports are mostly closed, limiting movement and access for residents.
While Queensland is accustomed to cyclones, the southern extent of this storm's reach is uncommon. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese expressed confidence in the resilience of Australians amid the uncertain conditions. The specter of Cyclone Alfred raises memories of past disasters, such as the flooding in February 2022, as communities unite their efforts for safety.
Despite warnings, some surfers have chosen to embrace the conditions, taking advantage of strong waves at Kirra beach, reflecting the community's complex relationship with extreme weather phenomena. Albanese has reminded the public of the necessity for caution, emphasizing that the cyclone's threat should not be underestimated or trivialized.
Authorities continue to monitor the slow-moving storm, ensuring that residents are kept informed and prepared as developments unfold.
Meteorologist Miriam Bradbury from the Bureau of Meteorology has indicated that intense rainfall could lead to flash-flooding in low-lying areas, as well as riverine flooding across Queensland and northern New South Wales, where millions are currently in the storm's path. There have already been reports of floods from the cyclone, with authorities searching for a man whose vehicle was swept away by rising waters.
Residents, including Stephen Valentine from Logan city, are taking precautions by stocking up on water and food and creating safe spaces within their homes. Local officials have distributed sandbags to help residents brace for impact as the storm approaches, with public infrastructure severely affected—schools, public transport, and airports are mostly closed, limiting movement and access for residents.
While Queensland is accustomed to cyclones, the southern extent of this storm's reach is uncommon. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese expressed confidence in the resilience of Australians amid the uncertain conditions. The specter of Cyclone Alfred raises memories of past disasters, such as the flooding in February 2022, as communities unite their efforts for safety.
Despite warnings, some surfers have chosen to embrace the conditions, taking advantage of strong waves at Kirra beach, reflecting the community's complex relationship with extreme weather phenomena. Albanese has reminded the public of the necessity for caution, emphasizing that the cyclone's threat should not be underestimated or trivialized.
Authorities continue to monitor the slow-moving storm, ensuring that residents are kept informed and prepared as developments unfold.
