In brief
Authorities warn of significant flooding and power outages as the cyclone prepares to make landfall.
Cyclone Alfred, categorized as a significant weather event, is steadily advancing towards Queensland's coast, prompted by growing winds along the Gold Coast. As surfers eagerly catch the escalating waves, local authorities are urging residents to seek shelter indoors. The cyclone, on track to hit as a category two system on Saturday morning, could produce winds up to 95 km/h (59 mph) and gusts reaching 130 km/h. Surfers, undeterred by warnings, are making the most of the tumultuous conditions. "This is what we look forward to," exclaimed surfer Jeff Weatherall, expressing his excitement despite the impending storm. However, many locals are taking the threat seriously, preparing for potential damage and flooding. Meteorologists have noted Cyclone Alfred's erratic progression, hinting at a potential for prolonged heavy rainfall and worsening conditions. Officials estimate up to 800 mm of rain may fall over the coming days, impacting millions in southern Queensland and northern New South Wales, including the substantial metropolitan area of Brisbane.Preparation efforts are in full effect, as residents like Stephen Valentine are stockpiling resources and securing their homes. “Nothing has come this far south across the south," he observed, acknowledging the rarity of such storms in their region. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese highlighted the resilience of the Australian people amidst these tough times, though concerns remain high, particularly after one person went missing in a river incident related to the cyclone.In anticipation of the cyclone, more than 84,000 homes across Queensland and New South Wales have already experienced power outages, schools are closing their doors, and travel has been severely disrupted. Supermarket shelves are bare as residents rush to prepare for a storm that has not been felt in the area since the cyclones of 1974. As the region holds its breath for the storm's arrival, communities have come together to support one another, organizing sandbag distribution to safeguard homes against flooding. Yet, uncertainty looms as Australians wait for the arrival of Cyclone Alfred.
