Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred Prompts Urgent Flood Warnings in Queensland and NSW
Ex-tropical Cyclone Alfred poses severe flooding risks with 240,000 without power. Prime Minister Albanese urges vigilance, while businesses prepare for heavy rainfall. Authorities report significant illegal seizures during safety patrols. Meteorologists warn of ongoing severe weather, as flood risks continue to grow across Queensland and New South Wales.
Severe concerns have arisen following the downgrade of ex-tropical Cyclone Alfred, as it brings significant flooding risks. As of the latest updates, approximately 240,000 residents remain without power, with floodwaters continuing to rise across affected areas. The Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, has highlighted the need for vigilance and community support amid what he describes as a serious weather event. He stated, “We must remain vigilant. This is a very serious weather event. Please do not go outside… Stay out of flood waters, do not risk it.”
Business owners are bracing for further rainfall, with many, like cafe owner Quat Vu, taking precautionary measures. Vu’s Eightysix Cafe had severe damage during the 2022 floods, prompting him to reinforce protective measures, stating, “We know what to expect and we had a bit more time to prepare.”
Amid ongoing safety patrols by Queensland police, significant illegal goods worth nearly $630,000 were confiscated, leading to two arrests. Authorities intercepted a vehicle during routine checks, discovering substantial quantities of illegal drugs and weapons – a crucial operation during a natural disaster.
Meteorological officials have issued warnings as ex-tropical Cyclone Alfred transitions inland. Matt Collopy from the Bureau of Meteorology indicated that severe weather is likely to persist, emphasizing warnings about intense rainfall and gusty winds, stating, “The primary concern… is for those locally intense and very heavy rainfall amounts.”
Queensland authorities acknowledge a serious flooding risk with Premier David Crisafulli reminding that the state has faced similar challenges before. He emphasized the increasing likelihood of flash flooding due to already swollen catchments, urging residents to be prepared, claiming, “There remains a real risk of flooding in the days ahead.”
With ongoing power outages, Premier Crisafulli highlighted that nearly 250,000 homes are without electricity, marking the largest disruption in over a decade. He assured residents that damage assessments and repair efforts are underway despite significant challenges posed by adverse weather conditions.
The flood risks extend beyond Queensland as urgent warnings are issued in New South Wales, particularly for areas at risk of isolation due to severe rainfall. Reports indicate that 286,000 homes and businesses are currently without power, with utility teams prepared to respond as conditions permit. Essential Energy confirmed their readiness to mobilize support for restoration as soon as it is safe to do so.
In conclusion, the threat of flooding caused by ex-tropical Cyclone Alfred presents significant challenges for Queensland and New South Wales. Authorities have urged citizens to remain vigilant given the current weather conditions, while businesses and emergency services are taking proactive measures to mitigate the impact. The situation remains serious, warranting continuous communication and cooperation among residents, local authorities, and emergency services.
Original Source: thenightly.com.au
