By: Mike Crooks
The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) is calling it a “very dangerous system” for parts of Queensland and New South Wales.
On Thursday, Tropical Cyclone Alfred is expected to wreak havoc on the Queensland coast.
The storm, which is currently off the coast of the state and moving south, is predicted to bring strong winds, damaging surf, “abnormally high tides”, high rainfall, flooding and more.
But what’s unique about Alfred, is that the tropical storm is baring down on south-east Queensland – including Brisbane.
“While it’s incredibly uncommon, there’s currently a very real threat a significant cyclone could hit south-east Queensland,” Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said.
“Be aware”
The last tropical cyclone to hit the highly populated area of south-east Queensland was Tropical Cyclone Zoe in 1974.
The weather system will also affect NSW, including Sydney.
BOM Brisbane manager Matthew Collopy said that while it wasn’t possible to predict the exact coastal crossing, “people from Bundaberg right down to the Gold Coast need to be aware that we may see significant winds, coastal inundation, intense rainfall and flooding.”
“Do everything you can”
The BOM is predicting potentially deadly conditions from Wednesday, with daily rainfall of up to 600 mm.
Premier David Crisafulli warned south-east Queenslanders to prepare for the worst.
“I know this is not a frequent occurrence, and there may be Queenslanders who can be forgiven for thinking this is something that doesn’t occur,” he said.
“Well, history shows that it does, and that’s why we are taking that precautionary approach and asking people to do everything you can to get ready.”
Storm Path
A flood watch has been issued for northern NSW and south-east Queensland is on high alert.
The current warning zone listed by BOM includes cities and towns from Double Island Point to Grafton, including Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Byron Bay and Ballina but not including Grafton.
Though the storm is predicted to weaken, the effects of the cyclone will be widespread.
Events cancelled
The storm has postponed the opening game of the 2025 AFL season – and an NRL game. A major golf tournament, Green Day rock concert and other events cancelled entirely.
Get Ready
The Brisbane Council is urging all residents to remain alert and be prepared.
“Make all necessary preparations for possible severe weather impacts, by clearing your yards and gutters, trimming overhanging tree branches, and secure loose items that could become dangerous during high winds,” a council statement read.
For more information on being prepared visit the SES NSW website.
Food and Supplies
Premier Crisafulli urged residents to gather tinned food and supplies, well before the cyclone makes landfall.
“If people stay connected, I’ve got every faith that we can get through the event and, ultimately, it’s people that have to matter,” he said.
“And people that have to come first in this, and preservation of human life is a first priority.”
If affected by the disaster, Queenslanders can call the Community Recovery Hotline (1800 173 349) for information about financial help and support services.
To say informed visit BOM, SES NSW or visit Queensland’s Disaster Management for current warnings.
“This part of the state has had its fair share of flooding challenges and has responded well, and I genuinely believe that people will heed warnings and will do the right thing,” Premier Crisafulli said.
For more information visit SES NSW and Disaster Management QLD.
Article supplied with thanks to Hope Media.
Feature image: Wikimedia Commons