Eastern Australia is reeling from the impact of Cyclone Alfred, with significant flooding and widespread power outages affecting nearly 290,000 properties. Emergency services are overwhelmed with calls for help, and the situation remains dire as local leaders warn of ongoing weather hazards.
Cyclone Devastation: Eastern Australia Faces Mass Power Outages and Flooding
Cyclone Devastation: Eastern Australia Faces Mass Power Outages and Flooding
Severe weather conditions leave hundreds of thousands without electricity as communities begin recovery efforts following Cyclone Alfred.
Eastern Australia is grappling with the aftermath of Cyclone Alfred, which has resulted in significant power outages and severe flooding across the regions of southeast Queensland and northern New South Wales (NSW). Following the storm, which made landfall near Brisbane on Saturday night, hundreds of thousands are still without electricity as recovery efforts get underway.
Residents in affected areas are working to clean up after the storm caused extensive damage, including downed power lines and uprooted trees. Tragically, the body of a 61-year-old man was recovered from floodwaters over the weekend, and 12 soldiers were injured in a convoy accident while en route to rescue operations.
Despite the cyclone's classification being downgraded to a tropical depression, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has cautioned residents that the risk of flash flooding and strong winds persists. "The situation in Queensland and northern New South Wales remains very serious," he stated, emphasizing the expected continuation of heavy rainfall and coastal impacts in the days ahead.
As of Sunday evening, emergency services reported conducting various rescues, primarily involving individuals trapped in their vehicles or homes by rising floodwaters. The NSW State Emergency Service received over 6,000 emergency calls, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
At present, nearly 290,000 properties remain without power, with energy companies warning that the blackouts could last for several days as they work to restore services. Meanwhile, Queensland police confirmed no fatalities or missing persons linked to the cyclone in their jurisdiction thus far.
The impact on communities is significant, as the storm has eroded sections of beaches, exacerbating conditions along the coast. As recovery efforts continue, local leaders remain focused on providing assistance to affected residents amid the adverse weather conditions.
