[Last updated 15:07 7th March]
Tropical Cyclone Alfred has intensified to a category 2 system and is now forecast to make landfall between Noosa and Beenleigh, Qld on Saturday morning. This marks a significant weather event for the region, the first direct tropical cyclone threat in decades (since 1974). Residents are urged to immediately commence preparations for potentially damaging to destructive winds, torrential rainfall, and dangerous storm surges.
Current Situation and Forecast:
- Intensity: Category 2, with potential for fluctuations. Expected to remain Category 2 (potentially high end of cat 2) at landfall.
- Location: Approximately 360 km east of Brisbane, moving towards the coast.
- Landfall: Forecast to cross the Moreton Bay Islands on Saturday morning and then cross the mainland most likely between Noosa and Beenleigh, Qld.
- Impacts:
- Gales with damaging wind gusts up to 120 km/hour, closer to 140 km/h near the centre.
- Heavy rainfall with daily totals of 200 to 400 mm, and localized areas exceeding 600 mm.
- Dangerous and life-threatening flash flooding, particularly near and south of the cyclone’s centre.
- Significant storm surges, especially during high tide, threatening low-lying coastal areas including Golden Beach, Noosa, and Gold Coast canal estates.
Official Warnings and Actions:
- The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) is issuing regular updates. Stay informed through BOM warnings, the BOM radar, and your local ABC Radio station.
- The Standard Emergency Warning Signal (SEWS) will be broadcast when the cyclone is 12 hours or less away.
- The Australian Warning System (AWS) is in effect. Be aware of Advice (yellow), Watch and Act (orange), and Emergency Warning (red) levels.
Premier’s Urgent Call for Preparedness:
Queensland Premier David Crisafulli has emphasised the severity of the situation, urging residents to avoid complacency. “It’s an event that doesn’t happen a lot to this part of the state, but it isn’t unprecedented,” he stated. “We are asking people to do all you can to prepare in the knowledge that we are doing the same.”
Key Preparations:
- Emergency Kit: Check and restock your emergency survival kit, including a battery-powered radio, torch, first-aid supplies, and essential medications.
- Water and Food: Secure at least 10 litres of water per person, fill bathtubs and buckets, and prepare non-perishable food supplies.
- Property Protection: Clear loose items, bring outdoor furniture indoors, and secure windows and doors.
- Vehicle Safety: Move vehicles under cover, ensure handbrakes are engaged, and fill fuel tanks.
- Communication: Stay updated through ABC Radio and the BOM. Charge devices and prepare backup power sources.
- Neighbors and Community: Check on vulnerable neighbours and ensure they are aware of the warnings.
- Pets and Livestock: Plan for the care of pets and livestock, as they are generally not allowed in evacuation shelters.
- Evacuation Planning: Familiarize yourself with evacuation routes and shelter locations. Be prepared to evacuate if ordered.
- Power Outages: Prepare for potential power outages by turning off electrical appliances and securing alternative lighting sources.
During the Cyclone:
- Stay indoors, away from windows, and in the strongest part of your home.
- Listen to ABC Radio for updates and instructions.
- If evacuating, follow official directions and take your emergency kit.
- Do not drive through flood waters.
- If you lose power turn off all unneeded electrical devices.
Post-Cyclone Recovery:
- Be aware of fallen powerlines and debris.
- Contact the SES on 132 500 for assistance with damage, and call triple-0 for life-threatening emergencies.
- Document any damage for insurance claims.
- Be aware of food safety, and how to keep food safe during power outages.
Emergency Contacts:
- SES: 132 500
- Emergency (life-threatening): 000
- Energex (Power outages): 13 62 62
Stay Informed:
- Bureau of Meteorology (BOM): [BOM Website]
- ABC Emergency: [ABC Emergency Website]
- Local ABC Radio.
- Sunshine Coast Council: [Disaster Hub Dashboard]
- Queensland Government: [Get Ready Queensland]
This is a critical situation. Residents are urged to take immediate action to protect themselves and their property.
More Information about Cyclones
- The Conversation: Cyclone Alfred is bearing down
- How to prepare for a cyclone, according to an expert
- Prepare for a Cyclone: (Pdf)
- Why it’s not too late to prepare
- How cyclones rip apart houses
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is based on current forecasts and warnings from the Bureau of Meteorology and relevant authorities as of [04/03/25 13:00]. Weather conditions and forecasts are subject to change, and you are urged to stay updated through official sources such as the Bureau of Meteorology, Government, Council and local emergency services, and ABC Radio.
This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute official emergency advice. You should follow the instructions and guidance provided by local authorities and emergency services. The information provided herein is not a substitute for professional advice.
While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information, no liability is accepted for any loss or damage incurred as a result of reliance on this information. Individuals are responsible for their own safety and preparedness.