Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred: Severe Flood Risk and Power Outages Surge

Ex-tropical Cyclone Alfred has caused extensive flooding and power outages in Queensland and New South Wales, affecting over 286,000 homes. Authorities are urging residents to stay indoors and prepare for further rainfall. Police have seized illegal goods during cyclone patrols, while business owners are reinforcing structures against predicted weather impacts. The situation remains critical as recovery efforts and weather warnings continue.

Ex-tropical Cyclone Alfred caused severe flooding and power outages across Queensland and New South Wales, with 286,000 homes and businesses without electricity. The cyclone has made landfall, prompting urgent advisories from authorities for residents to stay indoors and avoid floodwaters. The impacts of this weather event are significant, with the Prime Minister urging the public to remain vigilant and prepared for worsening conditions.

In Brisbane, businesses like Quat Vu’s Eightysix Cafe are bracing for heavy rainfall, having learned from devastating floods in 2022. Preparations have included reinforcing windows with tarps and stacking sandbags. Increased rain forecasts have compelled further readiness for potential flooding.

Police conducted safety patrols during Cyclone Alfred and seized illegal substances, arresting two men involved in a drug incident during the cyclone’s fallout. Officers found over 2 kg of methamphetamine alongside other contraband while on patrol.

The Bureau of Meteorology has warned that Alfred is expected to move inland, potentially resulting in heavy rainfall and damaging wind gusts across southeastern Queensland. Flooding remains a pressing concern, particularly in regions already facing swollen catchments.

Queensland authorities reported the largest power outage in over ten years, with the statewide electricity grid struggling to restore services to 250,000 homes. Damage assessments are underway, and crews are prepared to mobilize as soon as conditions allow.

Premier David Crisafulli has highlighted the ongoing challenges presented by rain and flooding, with records indicating significant rainfall accumulations in various locations. As conditions worsen, additional alerts have been issued, including preparation to isolate warnings for multiple areas in New South Wales. Essential Energy reported that while safety measures are in place, adverse weather has hindered repair work on damaged powerlines across affected regions.

Ex-tropical Cyclone Alfred has resulted in severe flooding and significant power outages across Queensland and New South Wales, with authorities calling for vigilance and preparedness. Business owners are fortifying against anticipated rainfall, while safety patrols by police have yielded arrests related to illegal activities amid the cyclone. The estimated impact of heavy rainfall and risks of flash flooding highlight the need for continued caution in the days ahead as the storm progresses inland.

Original Source: thenightly.com.au