At least 15,000 people in Australia have been ordered to evacuate as Cyclone Alfred approaches the eastern coast, with forecasts suggesting it could make landfall around Brisbane, Queensland this weekend. Packing winds of up to 75 miles per hour, the storm poses serious threats, including flash flooding and high tides. By Friday, about 29,000 homes in New South Wales were deemed at risk, alongside power outages affecting tens of thousands in both Queensland and New South Wales.
The slow movement of Alfred, already hovering about 80 miles off the Queensland coast, could exacerbate its impact, prolonging rainfall and storm surges, particularly threatening areas already vulnerable to flooding, such as Lismore. This cyclone marks the first significant storm to hit Queensland's southeastern coast since 1974, raising alarms among emergency services and residents alike.
In preparation for the storm, local officials reported widespread closures of schools and airports in vulnerable areas, while grocery stores faced frantic shoppers stocking up on essentials and sandbags. Even in the face of impending danger, surf enthusiasts flocked to the coast, eager to ride the powerful waves generated by the looming cyclone.
To support recovery efforts, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has pledged federal emergency funds to the affected states. The Australian Bureau of Meteorology continues to monitor the situation closely as residents brace for the impact of Cyclone Alfred.
The potential for life-threatening conditions remains a critical concern as the storm approaches, urging communities to remain vigilant and prepared.
The slow movement of Alfred, already hovering about 80 miles off the Queensland coast, could exacerbate its impact, prolonging rainfall and storm surges, particularly threatening areas already vulnerable to flooding, such as Lismore. This cyclone marks the first significant storm to hit Queensland's southeastern coast since 1974, raising alarms among emergency services and residents alike.
In preparation for the storm, local officials reported widespread closures of schools and airports in vulnerable areas, while grocery stores faced frantic shoppers stocking up on essentials and sandbags. Even in the face of impending danger, surf enthusiasts flocked to the coast, eager to ride the powerful waves generated by the looming cyclone.
To support recovery efforts, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has pledged federal emergency funds to the affected states. The Australian Bureau of Meteorology continues to monitor the situation closely as residents brace for the impact of Cyclone Alfred.
The potential for life-threatening conditions remains a critical concern as the storm approaches, urging communities to remain vigilant and prepared.
