Tropical Cyclone Alfred Threatens Australia’s East Coast with Severe Weather
Millions on Australia’s east coast are preparing for Tropical Cyclone Alfred, the first cyclone since 1974. Wind speeds could reach 155 km/h, with extensive rainfall predicted. Queensland authorities are urging evacuations, especially in flood-prone areas, as emergency services set up response measures amid rising concerns of life-threatening flooding.
Australia’s east coast is preparing for its first tropical cyclone in over 50 years, as millions brace for impact from Tropical Cyclone Alfred. Residents in flood-prone areas of Queensland and New South Wales are being urged to evacuate their homes due to the storm’s projected winds of up to 155 kilometers per hour (96 mph). Authorities have issued storm warnings across a coastal stretch of over 500 kilometers (311 miles).
Alfred is anticipated to make landfall as a Category 2 cyclone early Friday near Brisbane, a major city with a population of 2.5 million and the capital of Queensland. The Bureau of Meteorology forecasts that some regions could receive rainfall totals of up to 800 millimeters (31.5 inches), greatly exceeding March’s average, raising concerns about life-threatening flash flooding.
Queensland Premier David Crisafulli emphasized the rarity of such storms in southeast Queensland, noting that the area has not experienced a cyclone since 1974. He urged coastal residents to heed evacuation mandates, stating, “If it was the case that this [cyclone], which has strengthened, was to cross on high tide in the middle of the night, and you’re in that storm surge, the last place you want to be is in your home.”
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has pledged to provide necessary resources for state officials involved in rescue operations. Similarly, New South Wales Premier Chris Minns advised residents to “bunker down over the next 48 hours and get through what may be a very difficult time.”
With thousands already evacuating their homes, emergency services are mobilizing to set up evacuation centers. Supermarket shelves have been depleted as residents stockpile essentials, and supplies of sandbags are reportedly running low as the storm approaches.
In conclusion, Tropical Cyclone Alfred poses a significant threat to Australia’s east coast, with millions advised to evacuate in anticipation of severe weather conditions. Local authorities are on high alert, urging residents to prioritize their safety. As evacuation efforts continue, the focus remains on mitigating the potential impacts of this rare and powerful storm.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
