Tropical Cyclone Alfred Set to Impact Australia’s East Coast

Queensland and New South Wales prepare for Tropical Cyclone Alfred, expected to bring winds of 155 km/h and up to 800 mm of rain. Evacuations are mandated for flood-prone regions due to risks of life-threatening flash floods. Officials emphasize the rarity of this storm and urge prompt action from residents.

Australia’s east coast is poised for its first tropical cyclone in over 50 years, as millions prepare for the arrival of Tropical Cyclone Alfred. Authorities have issued evacuation orders for residents in flood-prone areas along over 500 kilometers of coastline, particularly in Queensland and New South Wales, where winds could reach 155 km/h (96 mph).

Tropical Cyclone Alfred is predicted to make landfall as a Category 2 storm on Friday morning, near Brisbane, the capital of Queensland, which hosts a population of approximately 2.5 million. The Bureau of Meteorology has issued warnings that rainfall could peak at 800 mm (31.5 inches) in some regions, surpassing the average totals for March and raising the threat of potentially life-threatening flash floods.

Queensland Premier David Crisafulli emphasized the rarity of such events, noting the region has not experienced a cyclone since 1974. The last major cyclone threat to Brisbane occurred in 1990 when it narrowly avoided the city. Premier Crisafulli implored residents near the coast to heed evacuation orders, particularly for those vulnerable to storm surges during high tides, saying, “Now’s the time [to evacuate].”

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese pledged to allocate needed resources to assist state government rescue operations, while New South Wales Premier Chris Minns encouraged residents to be vigilant in the coming days. Authorities are wary of flooding risks for communities near rivers and creeks, especially in light of previous significant floods experienced in the Northern Rivers area.

Experts predict that Cyclone Alfred’s impact may be most severe in regions south of the storm’s center, affecting tourist areas from the Gold Coast through northern New South Wales. In anticipation, thousands have evacuated, and emergency shelters have been established. Grocery stores have reported shortages as residents stockpile essentials, leading to a scarcity of sandbags in preparation for the impending storm.

In summary, Cyclone Alfred represents a significant threat to Australia’s east coast, bringing the potential for damaging winds and substantial rainfall. Authorities are urging residents in flood-prone areas to evacuate promptly, reflecting their heightened concern for safety. Leaders at various levels of government are mobilizing resources and support to address the imminent challenges posed by this rare weather event.

Original Source: www.aljazeera.com