Authorities have warned of severe weather conditions as Cyclone Alfred swirls near Bribie Island, with maximum wind speeds expected to reach 85 km/h. Although downgraded, the weather system carries the threat of significant rainfall, predicted to exceed 200mm in the coming days, causing widespread flash floods.
Thousands have evacuated their homes, and over 230,000 households are currently without power. The Bureau of Meteorology cautions residents to remain indoors due to the ongoing risks associated with the cyclone's passage.
As the ex-cyclone progresses erratically inland at what meteorologists are describing as "walking pace," the specter of flash flooding looms over low-lying communities. With four million people across Queensland and northern New South Wales in the storm's trajectory, concerns grow, especially following reports of a person missing after being swept away in a river.
Stephen Valentine, a resident in Logan city, shared his family's preparations, including storing water and food and setting up secure areas away from windows. He expressed a sense of unease, noting that this level of storm impact is rare for the south of Queensland.
In response to the cyclone, Queensland residents prepared by collecting sandbags to fortify their homes. Although cyclones are not uncommon in Queensland, they typically do not travel this far south. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese underscored the resilience of Australians while acknowledging the storm's serious nature.
Schools, public transportation, and airports in the path of Cyclone Alfred have been closed, with flights grounded until at least Sunday. The last notable cyclonic event in the region occurred in 1974, with flooding incidents being more frequent in recent years.
As residents await the storm's arrival, uncertainty pervades the atmosphere. While many are taking precautions, some surfers are drawn to the powerful waves generated by the cyclone, continuing to surf despite the impending danger. Resilience centers on the contrast between caution for safety and the allure of the waves.
Authorities emphasize the need for vigilance during this time, discouraging non-essential excursions in anticipation of severe weather conditions.
Additional reporting by Kelly Ng and Hafsa Khalil.
Thousands have evacuated their homes, and over 230,000 households are currently without power. The Bureau of Meteorology cautions residents to remain indoors due to the ongoing risks associated with the cyclone's passage.
As the ex-cyclone progresses erratically inland at what meteorologists are describing as "walking pace," the specter of flash flooding looms over low-lying communities. With four million people across Queensland and northern New South Wales in the storm's trajectory, concerns grow, especially following reports of a person missing after being swept away in a river.
Stephen Valentine, a resident in Logan city, shared his family's preparations, including storing water and food and setting up secure areas away from windows. He expressed a sense of unease, noting that this level of storm impact is rare for the south of Queensland.
In response to the cyclone, Queensland residents prepared by collecting sandbags to fortify their homes. Although cyclones are not uncommon in Queensland, they typically do not travel this far south. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese underscored the resilience of Australians while acknowledging the storm's serious nature.
Schools, public transportation, and airports in the path of Cyclone Alfred have been closed, with flights grounded until at least Sunday. The last notable cyclonic event in the region occurred in 1974, with flooding incidents being more frequent in recent years.
As residents await the storm's arrival, uncertainty pervades the atmosphere. While many are taking precautions, some surfers are drawn to the powerful waves generated by the cyclone, continuing to surf despite the impending danger. Resilience centers on the contrast between caution for safety and the allure of the waves.
Authorities emphasize the need for vigilance during this time, discouraging non-essential excursions in anticipation of severe weather conditions.
Additional reporting by Kelly Ng and Hafsa Khalil.
