Australia’s eastern coast is bracing for the impact of Tropical Cyclone Alfred, the most southerly cyclone to threaten the region in over 50 years. The cyclone, with the strength of a category 1 Atlantic hurricane, is expected to cross the coast just south of Brisbane, Australia, in the early hours of Friday. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called the event rare, as it is not common for tropical cyclones to hit southeast Queensland and northern New South Wales. Experts warn that the worst of the cyclone could be felt along tourist beaches in areas from the Gold Coast to northern NSW.
Residents in the affected areas are preparing for the potential flooding and storm surges, with creeks and rivers in northern NSW expected to flood. Authorities are urging residents in vulnerable coastal areas to follow evacuation orders and to prepare for possible flash flooding. Major sporting events have been canceled, schools will be closed, and beaches along the coast have been shut down.
With destructive winds of up to 120 kilometers per hour and waves over 5 meters, residents are advised to take precautions, such as sandbagging their homes and tying down loose objects. Queensland Premier David Crisafulli stressed the importance of following evacuation orders and not staying in homes during the storm surge. The last cyclone to hit Brisbane with a similar strength was in 1974, but with the city’s population more than doubling since then, the impact of Cyclone Alfred could be significant.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image associated with the presented article. Due to copyright reasons, we are unable to use the original images. However, you can still enjoy the accurate and up-to-date content and information provided.
