In brief
Queensland is facing the imminent arrival of Cyclone Alfred, a category two system expected to make landfall on Saturday morning. With winds reaching up to 95 km/h and heavy rain predicted, authorities urge residents to stay indoors as die-hard surfers flock to the waves at Kirra Beach. While some locals prepare for the worst, stirring worries of flooding and loss of power loom over the region.
As winds pick up along Australia's Gold Coast, the excitement among surfers contrasts sharply with the caution displayed by local authorities. Surfer Jeff Weatherall, one of many who have been taking advantage of the strong surf conditions throughout the week, anticipates the cyclone’s arrival with a mix of thrill and concern for vulnerable residents. “This is just crazy surf,” he remarked while preparing for another ride into the waves.Cyclone Alfred, characterized as a category two cyclone, has demonstrated erratic movement and slowed progress in recent days, prompting experts to warn of potential heavy rainfall and flooding that could affect over four million people. The storm is projected to impact areas between the Sunshine Coast and Brisbane, where residents are already making preparations. In Logan City, south of Brisbane, Stephen Valentine and his family have gathered supplies, including 30 liters of water and provisions for their pets. "Nothing has come this far south," Valentine noted, emphasizing their efforts to stay safe. The looming threat of Cyclone Alfred is a chilling reminder for the typically cyclone-wary residents of Queensland.As anticipation builds for the storm’s arrival, concerns extend beyond fierce winds, with estimates indicating that Cyclone Alfred could deliver as much as 800mm of rain. This rainfall is likely to threaten low-lying areas with flash flooding. Queensland has a history of cyclones, but the south typically experiences lesser disturbances, making the situation more alarming.Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has reassured the public of their resilience in these tough times, a sentiment echoed by local officials. Emergency services have mobilized resources, including sandbags, to assist communities in safeguarding their properties. In stark contrast, the region is grappling with power outages affecting over 84,000 homes and widespread evacuations, with nearly 1,000 schools closing and public transport halting operations. Major disruptions, including a suspension of flights, have been implemented as locals hunker down ahead of expected chaos.Residents of the Brisbane suburb of West End report a surreal calm before the storm; many are filled with anxiety and uncertainty as they prepare for Cyclone Alfred’s anticipated impact. "People expect a lot of trees to come down and to lose power for an extended period," said Mark Clayton, who is actively working to support his community as they brace for the worst storm since 1974.
