Tropical Cyclone Alfred Approaches Australia’s East Coast, Evacuations Underway
Australia’s east coast is preparing for its first tropical cyclone since 1974, with Tropical Cyclone Alfred expected to make landfall near Brisbane. Authorities have issued evacuation orders due to potential life-threatening flash flooding and winds reaching 155 km/h. Officials urge residents to prepare and heed safety measures ahead of the storm’s arrival.
Australia’s east coast faces its first tropical cyclone in over 50 years, with millions of residents preparing for impact as authorities advise evacuations from flood-sensitive regions. Tropical Cyclone Alfred is forecasted to make landfall as a Category 2 storm early Friday near Brisbane, which houses 2.5 million people, potentially bringing winds up to 155 km/h (96 mph) and rainfall reaching 800 mm (31.5 inches). Flood warnings have been issued across a 500 km (311 miles) stretch of the Queensland and New South Wales coastline, with significant concern for life-threatening flash floods in communities. Queensland Premier David Crisafulli emphasized the rarity of such storms in southeast Queensland, noting that the previous cyclone incident occurred in 1974. He urged coastal residents to heed evacuation orders promptly. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese promised necessary resources to support state rescue operations, while New South Wales Premier Chris Minns cautioned residents to remain vigilant during the cyclone’s approach. Experts predict that the storm’s impact may be most severe south of its center along the Gold Coast and northern New South Wales, prompting widespread evacuations and stockpiling of supplies.
In summary, Tropical Cyclone Alfred is poised to affect millions along Australia’s east coast, marking an unprecedented occurrence since 1974. Authorities are implementing evacuation orders for vulnerable areas, while state leaders assure support for affected communities. With heavy rainfall and strong winds predicted, residents are urged to prepare for potential flooding and adverse conditions in the coming days.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
