Tropical Cyclone Alfred is rapidly approaching the eastern coast of Australia, leading to urgent evacuation orders for at least 15,000 residents. The cyclone is expected to make landfall near Brisbane, which would mark a significant weather event as it is the first storm of this magnitude in decades to threaten the area.
As of Friday afternoon, Cyclone Alfred was about 80 miles from Brisbane, already causing flooding due to unusually high tides. In New South Wales, officials noted that approximately 29,000 homes are at risk, with about 15,000 residents evacuated from vulnerable areas. Power outages affected around 38,000 customers in New South Wales, with a further 46,000 experiencing disruptions in Queensland.
Conditions are expected to worsen as the cyclone moves westward at a slow pace of about 5 miles per hour, increasing the risk of prolonged rainfall and storm surges. Coastal towns like Lismore, which suffered severe flooding in 2022, are particularly on high alert.
Prior to making landfall, the storm has already generated winds reaching up to 75 miles per hour. Officials warn of flash floods and hazardous conditions, advising citizens to stay alert.
In response to the situation, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced that federal emergency funds will be released for recovery efforts after the storm passes. Amid these warnings, the cyclone's large waves have drawn surfers to the coast, highlighting a paradox of danger and thrill in the storm's wake.
Stay safe, Australia!
