Tropical Cyclone Alfred Approaches Australia’s East Coast, Urgent Evacuations Ordered
Tropical Cyclone Alfred is expected to land on Australia’s east coast, affecting Queensland and New South Wales. Authorities have issued evacuation orders due to risks of extreme winds and heavy rainfall leading to flash flooding. It marks the first cyclone to hit the region since 1974, prompting significant concerns among officials and residents alike.
Australia’s east coast is preparing for the arrival of Tropical Cyclone Alfred, the first cyclone to impact Queensland and New South Wales since 1974. Millions of residents are under storm warnings along over 500km of coastline as authorities advise those in flood-prone areas to evacuate. Alfred is projected to make landfall as a Category 2 storm near Brisbane, with wind speeds reaching 155 km/h (96 mph).
The Bureau of Meteorology estimates that some regions could see up to 800mm (31.5 inches) of rainfall, significantly exceeding typical March totals. Heavy rain poses a high risk of life-threatening flash floods, prompting urgent calls for evacuation from Queensland’s Premier David Crisafulli. He emphasized the rarity of this event, as southeast Queensland hasn’t encountered a cyclone in decades.
Crisafulli urged residents in at-risk areas to consider their evacuation plans seriously, particularly if facing a potential storm surge during high tide. He stated, “the last place you want to be is in your home,” underlining the urgency of the situation. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese pledged support to local governments for necessary rescue operations.
New South Wales Premier Chris Minns advised residents to take precautions over the next few days, expressing concern for communities near rivers anticipating flooding, particularly in the troubled Northern Rivers area. Amid preparations, many residents have evacuated, and local businesses have seen essential supplies sell out rapidly, further intensifying the urgent need for preparedness and immediate action.
In summary, Tropical Cyclone Alfred is poised to strike Australia’s east coast, marking the first cyclone in over fifty years for the region. Warnings of severe weather, including damaging winds and unprecedented rainfall, have prompted mass evacuations and heightened concern for safety, particularly in flood-risk zones. Authorities are actively mobilizing resources to support rescue efforts and ensure public safety.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
