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A tropical depression is on course to strike Australia's eastern coastline on Saturday morning, as evacuation orders have been issued for tens of thousands and over 230,000 households are left without electricity. Initially categorized as Cyclone Alfred, the system has since been downgraded to a tropical low, with wind speeds expected to reach up to 85km/h, less than earlier predictions. The Bureau of Meteorology reports that the storm is now positioned off Bribie Island, slowly moving northward and anticipated to make landfall between the island and Maroochydore.
Officials continue to warn residents to remain indoors, with penalties in place for those who venture to beaches, as the potential for heavy rainfall and flooding persists. On Saturday morning, senior meteorologist Miriam Bradbury from the Bureau of Meteorology highlighted the ongoing threat of severe weather, particularly concerning rainfall. "In the next 24 hours, rainfall totals could surpass 200mm as the system slows and moves inland," she stated during an interview with ABC News Breakfast. "With the rain still hammering down, we are expecting widespread flash flooding and impacts to persist throughout today and into tomorrow."
The downgraded storm has already triggered flooding incidents, with authorities on high alert for worsening conditions over the weekend. Notably, New South Wales police reported that one individual is missing after being swept away in a fast-moving river. Approximately four million residents throughout Queensland and northern New South Wales are in the storm’s path. Its measured pace of movement has caused weather experts to express concerns regarding flash and riverine flooding in regions prone to such risks.
Local residents, including Stephen Valentine and his wife, reported preparing extensively for the impending weather, stocking up on water and food, and creating secure areas in their home to weather the storm safely. "We are as ready as we can be for this unprecedented situation," Mr. Valentine reflected. "We've never experienced something like this so far south."
Queensland, known for its vulnerability to cyclones, faces rare occurrences of such storms reaching further south. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese underscored the resilience of Australians amidst these challenging conditions, acknowledging the anxiety surrounding Cyclone Alfred.
Alongside hazardous winds, the storm is projected to bring up to 800mm of rain in the upcoming days. With nearly 1,000 schools closed, public transport suspended, and airports shut down, flight operations are not anticipated to resume until at least Sunday. Elective surgeries have also been postponed due to safety concerns.
The last cyclone to significantly affect the area was in 1974, when Cyclone Wanda made landfall, followed shortly by Cyclone Zoe. Although cyclones are infrequent, flooding remains a recurring issue; in February 2022, severe rainfall damaged thousands of homes across Australia’s east coast.
In preparation for Cyclone Alfred, local councils have established sandbag depots throughout affected areas. Residents like Anthony Singh experienced long waits for sandbags to safeguard their properties, while community members collectively coordinated efforts for preparation.
With supermarkets now closed and many residents sheltering at home, uncertainty looms as the anticipated storm approaches. Still, a handful of die-hard surfers remain undeterred by the impending weather. "These conditions are what we live for," exclaimed surfer Jeff Weatherall, who eagerly awaited a jet ski ride to reach the waves.
While some enjoy the thrill of surfing, Prime Minister Albanese has reiterated the importance of adhering to safety warnings. "This is no time for sightseeing or to experience these conditions firsthand," he cautioned. "Please prioritize your safety and be sensible."
The situation remains fluid as authorities continue to manage the emerging crisis, urging communities to stay alert and prepared.
A tropical depression is on course to strike Australia's eastern coastline on Saturday morning, as evacuation orders have been issued for tens of thousands and over 230,000 households are left without electricity. Initially categorized as Cyclone Alfred, the system has since been downgraded to a tropical low, with wind speeds expected to reach up to 85km/h, less than earlier predictions. The Bureau of Meteorology reports that the storm is now positioned off Bribie Island, slowly moving northward and anticipated to make landfall between the island and Maroochydore.
Officials continue to warn residents to remain indoors, with penalties in place for those who venture to beaches, as the potential for heavy rainfall and flooding persists. On Saturday morning, senior meteorologist Miriam Bradbury from the Bureau of Meteorology highlighted the ongoing threat of severe weather, particularly concerning rainfall. "In the next 24 hours, rainfall totals could surpass 200mm as the system slows and moves inland," she stated during an interview with ABC News Breakfast. "With the rain still hammering down, we are expecting widespread flash flooding and impacts to persist throughout today and into tomorrow."
The downgraded storm has already triggered flooding incidents, with authorities on high alert for worsening conditions over the weekend. Notably, New South Wales police reported that one individual is missing after being swept away in a fast-moving river. Approximately four million residents throughout Queensland and northern New South Wales are in the storm’s path. Its measured pace of movement has caused weather experts to express concerns regarding flash and riverine flooding in regions prone to such risks.
Local residents, including Stephen Valentine and his wife, reported preparing extensively for the impending weather, stocking up on water and food, and creating secure areas in their home to weather the storm safely. "We are as ready as we can be for this unprecedented situation," Mr. Valentine reflected. "We've never experienced something like this so far south."
Queensland, known for its vulnerability to cyclones, faces rare occurrences of such storms reaching further south. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese underscored the resilience of Australians amidst these challenging conditions, acknowledging the anxiety surrounding Cyclone Alfred.
Alongside hazardous winds, the storm is projected to bring up to 800mm of rain in the upcoming days. With nearly 1,000 schools closed, public transport suspended, and airports shut down, flight operations are not anticipated to resume until at least Sunday. Elective surgeries have also been postponed due to safety concerns.
The last cyclone to significantly affect the area was in 1974, when Cyclone Wanda made landfall, followed shortly by Cyclone Zoe. Although cyclones are infrequent, flooding remains a recurring issue; in February 2022, severe rainfall damaged thousands of homes across Australia’s east coast.
In preparation for Cyclone Alfred, local councils have established sandbag depots throughout affected areas. Residents like Anthony Singh experienced long waits for sandbags to safeguard their properties, while community members collectively coordinated efforts for preparation.
With supermarkets now closed and many residents sheltering at home, uncertainty looms as the anticipated storm approaches. Still, a handful of die-hard surfers remain undeterred by the impending weather. "These conditions are what we live for," exclaimed surfer Jeff Weatherall, who eagerly awaited a jet ski ride to reach the waves.
While some enjoy the thrill of surfing, Prime Minister Albanese has reiterated the importance of adhering to safety warnings. "This is no time for sightseeing or to experience these conditions firsthand," he cautioned. "Please prioritize your safety and be sensible."
The situation remains fluid as authorities continue to manage the emerging crisis, urging communities to stay alert and prepared.
