Tropical Cyclone Alfred is approaching the eastern coast of Australia, prompting the closure of schools, halting public transport, and causing residents to rush for emergency supplies. The cyclone is expected to make landfall near the Gold Coast by Saturday, with wind gusts anticipated to reach up to 90 kph (56 mph). This cyclone is notable as it would be the first to impact the area since Cyclone Zoe in 1974.
As the storm approaches, flooding is a primary concern, with up to 20,000 homes in Brisbane likely to be affected. The federal government has supplied 310,000 sandbags to the region, yet shortages have led many residents to resort to purchasing potting mix bags instead. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese reassured the public that support is available during this emergency.
As storm conditions worsened, power outages affected 4,500 homes and businesses in New South Wales, which is also experiencing heavy rain and rising rivers. Several communities are under evacuation orders to prevent residents from being trapped by flooding. The cyclone’s slow progress means prolonged rainfall and wind damage, heightening concerns for the affected regions.
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