Tropical Cyclone Alfred is poised to cross the Queensland coast late on Thursday or Friday, bringing a slew of challenges to residents in the state's southeast corner and northern New South Wales. As a category two system, Alfred is expected to unleash destructive winds, heavy rainfall, and the potential for significant damage across hundreds of kilometers of coastline. The approaching storm has triggered warnings as communities prepare for its anticipated impact.
Authorities anticipate that Cyclone Alfred will make landfall between Fraser K'gari Island and the Queensland-New South Wales border. The cyclone's maximum mean wind speeds are expected to reach between 89 and 117 kilometers per hour, with gusts potentially hitting 125 to 164 kilometers per hour. Daily rainfall totals could range from 200 to 400 millimeters, leading to heightened concerns about flooding and coastal inundation.
"The greatest impacts will be on the southern flank where you get those onshore winds, very heavy rainfall and of course the damaging and destructive winds." – Sarah Scully
Cyclone Alfred's arrival marks a significant event, as it is set to be the first tropical cyclone to cross the southeast Queensland coast since ex-Tropical Cyclone Zoe in 1974. The Bureau of Meteorology has issued warnings for potential power failures, damage to signs, trees, and caravans, as well as heavy damage to some crops.
"We're also expecting big storm tides, increasing the likelihood of coastal inundation and flooding of low-lying areas." – Sarah Scully
Residents in northern New South Wales are also being urged to prepare for severe weather conditions. The region rarely experiences tropical cyclone watches and warnings, adding an element of unpredictability to the situation.
"We don't often have tropical cyclone watches and warnings in the New South Wales jurisdiction," – Steven Bernasconi
With the storm expected to make landfall imminently, authorities have emphasized the necessity of readiness and caution.
"It was likely Cyclone Alfred would hit the Queensland coast in the next 24 hours between Fraser K'gari Island and the Queensland-New South Wales border." – David Crisafulli
The intense rainfall predicted over the coming days raises concerns about prolonged flooding.
"Even into the weekend we are likely to see widespread rain and storms." – Jonathan How
"And, of course, that flooding may take some time to subside, so still a long way to go." – Jonathan How
The potential for complications is heightened by already saturated areas, increasing the risk of severe flooding.
"You're already dealing with areas that are reasonably soaked already, so there are complications that come with that." – David Crisafulli
