Cyclone Alfred threatens Australia: Schools shut, transport disrupted

Tropical Cyclone Alfred is bearing down on Australia’s east coast, bringing strong winds, heavy rainfall, and widespread disruptions. As authorities brace for its impact, schools have been closed, public transport has been suspended, and residents are preparing for potential flooding.

Major Disruptions as Cyclone Approaches

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed that 660 schools in southern Queensland and 280 schools in northern New South Wales were shut on Thursday due to worsening weather. Public transport across the affected regions has been suspended, and hospitals are limiting operations to emergency surgeries.

Authorities have delivered 310,000 sandbags to Brisbane to help mitigate flood risks. Meanwhile, power outages have already affected 4,500 homes and businesses in northern New South Wales as strong winds continue to lash the region.

Cyclone Alfred’s Current Status and Forecast

As of Thursday, Cyclone Alfred was located 280 km (170 miles) east of Brisbane, moving westward with sustained winds of 95 kph (59 mph) and gusts of up to 130 kph (81 mph). The Bureau of Meteorology predicts the cyclone will make landfall early Saturday, potentially between the Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast.

The cyclone is expected to maintain its intensity until landfall, with flooding being the primary concern. Brisbane, which sits on a river floodplain, could see up to 20,000 homes affected by rising water levels.

Why Alfred’s Slow Movement Is a Major Concern

One of the biggest threats posed by Cyclone Alfred is its sluggish movement. Initially predicted to hit late Thursday or early Friday, the cyclone’s expected landfall has now been delayed to Saturday morning. This slow movement increases the risk of prolonged heavy rainfall, leading to severe flooding and coastal erosion.

Experts warn that the extended presence of large waves and storm surges could worsen the situation. Weak steering winds have caused Alfred to linger over the region, increasing the likelihood of significant damage, particularly in areas unaccustomed to tropical storms.

A Rare and Risky Cyclone Path

Cyclone Alfred’s trajectory is unusual for the region. Typically, cyclones impact northern Australia, but Alfred has formed much farther south. The last cyclone to hit the Gold Coast area was Cyclone Zoe in 1974. With Brisbane’s population nearing four million, the city’s infrastructure is not designed to withstand severe tropical storms.

Meteorologists attribute Alfred’s westward movement to a high-pressure system over the Tasman Sea. While the role of climate change in Alfred’s unusual path remains uncertain, scientists note that global warming has contributed to increasingly unpredictable cyclone patterns.

Airlines Suspend Flights

Major airlines have also taken precautionary measures. Virgin Australia and Qantas have suspended flights to and from Brisbane, the Gold Coast, and Ballina for Friday and Saturday. They plan to resume services on Sunday if conditions improve. Affected passengers are being offered free rescheduling options.

Landfall Expected at Redcliffe

According to the Bureau of Meteorology, Cyclone Alfred is expected to make landfall at Redcliffe in Moreton Bay around 4 AM on Saturday. While the cyclone may weaken to a Category 1 system upon landfall, heavy rainfall and strong winds will continue to pose a threat.

Authorities remain on high alert, urging residents in vulnerable areas to take precautions and stay updated with official warnings as Cyclone Alfred nears the Australian coast.