@ n2da
2025-03-05 07:58:03
# Overview
Tropical Cyclone Alfred, currently a Category 2 system, is advancing towards the southeastern coast of Queensland and northern New South Wales. The cyclone is anticipated to make landfall between late Thursday and early Friday, bringing destructive winds, heavy rainfall, and potential life-threatening flooding. Authorities have issued evacuation orders for residents in low-lying areas, closed schools, suspended public transport, and established evacuation centers. The Australian Defence Force and emergency services are on standby to assist with evacuation and recovery efforts. Residents are urged to prepare their properties, have evacuation plans in place, and stay updated through official channels. [TROPICAL CYCLONE FORECAST TRACK MAP](http://www.bom.gov.au/products/IDQ65002.shtml)
## Public Transport to Halt in South-East Queensland as Cyclone Alfred Approaches
### Summary:
Severe weather conditions due to Tropical Cyclone Alfred are ongoing, with the cyclone expected to impact south-east Queensland and northern New South Wales. Public transport in Brisbane and the surrounding region has been suspended, and authorities have urged residents to prepare their properties and have evacuation plans ready. The cyclone, likely to maintain a Category 2 status as it crosses the coast on Friday, could result in significant flooding and coastal erosion. The Australian Defence Force and emergency services are on standby to assist with possible evacuations and recovery efforts. Nearly 20,000 residences in Brisbane are at risk of flooding, and evacuation centers are being set up in NSW. This event is anticipated to be one of the most severe since 1954, with high winds, heavy rainfall, and damaging storm surges expected.
Sources: [The Guardian - 5 March 2025](https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/live/2025/mar/05/australia-news-live-tropical-cyclone-alfred-brisbane-gold-coast-floods-storm-election-anthony-albanese-peter-dutton-ntwnfb)
## Residents Urged to Evacuate as Cyclone Alfred Nears
### Summary:
Residents in southeast Queensland are urgently advised to evacuate as Tropical Cyclone Alfred approaches, threatening severe storm surges and flash flooding. The Category 2 cyclone is expected to hit between Brisbane and the Gold Coast around midnight on Thursday, coinciding with a high tide. Approximately 30,600 properties across Brisbane, the Sunshine Coast, and the Gold Coast are at risk. Premier David Crisafulli emphasized the need for immediate action to seek shelter with loved ones or in evacuation centers. Schools will be closed, and elective surgeries canceled on Thursday and Friday. Winds could reach 130 km/h, and up to 800 mm of rain is anticipated. The Australian Defence Force is ready to assist, with additional resources in place. Authorities are knocking on doors in at-risk areas, and evacuation centers will open. Residents are urged to stay indoors and avoid examining cyclone damage during the storm.
Sources: [The Australian - 5 March 2025](https://www.theaustralian.com.au/nation/flooding-risk-high-as-eye-of-tropical-cyclone-alfred-locks-on-brisbane/news-story/08cefe414f20a0a319066dc8e177eb70)
## Northern NSW Braces for Cyclone Alfred's Impact
### Summary:
Northern NSW is preparing for a significant natural disaster as Cyclone Alfred intensifies and slows, heightening the potential for severe impacts. Premier Chris Minns has traveled to the region to meet with SES volunteers and prepare for flooding. The cyclone, which may reach low-end Category 3 strength, is expected to make landfall near Brisbane on Friday. Authorities have warned residents to prepare for "three natural disaster events in one," including high winds, flash flooding, and significant rainfall. Over 120 schools are closed, flights have been canceled, and evacuation plans are advised for vulnerable areas. Essential Energy is managing power outages caused by high winds, and residents are advised to take action before conditions worsen. The NSW SES has opened evacuation centers, anticipating severe impacts along the coast. Residents are urged to prepare for potential flooding and power disruptions as authorities continue to monitor the situation.
Sources: [The Daily Telegraph - 5 March 2025](https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/regional/latest-on-tropical-cyclone-alfred-fears-for-northern-nsw-as-system-intensifies/news-story/b52b74b763dc895afa9fedcb33063925)
## Brisbane and Gold Coast Brace for First Cyclone in 51 Years
### Summary:
Residents in Brisbane and the Gold Coast are preparing for Tropical Cyclone Alfred, the first cyclone in 51 years to hit the Australian east coast near Brisbane. The cyclone is predicted to make landfall late Thursday or early Friday, bringing destructive winds, large swells, and potential life-threatening flooding. Brisbane, with over 3 million residents, may see up to 20,000 homes affected by flooding. The government has provided 250,000 sandbags and established cyclone refuge centers. Schools, public transport, and non-urgent hospital surgeries will be suspended. Queensland Premier David Crisafulli has urged residents to prepare their homes and plan evacuation routes. Cyclone Zoe was the last cyclone to hit the region in 1974.
Sources: [Associated Press - 5 March 2025](https://apnews.com/article/f40a46f400f42d7d94dc5a91cb11c11a)
## Rare Cyclone Alfred Threatens Australia's East Coast
### Summary:
Tropical Cyclone Alfred, with strength equivalent to a Category 1 Atlantic hurricane, is expected to cross the coast just south of Brisbane. Authorities have urged residents in low-lying areas to evacuate ahead of the storm's landfall, anticipated early Friday. The cyclone poses significant risks of severe winds, heavy rainfall, and potential flooding to the densely populated regions of southeast Queensland and northern New South Wales.
Sources: [CNN - 5 March 2025](https://www.cnn.com/2025/03/04/australia/cyclone-alfred-brisbane-nsw-intl-hnk/index.html)
## Evacuations Begin as Tropical Cyclone Alfred Approaches
### Summary:
Queensland and NSW are setting up evacuation centers ahead of Tropical Cyclone Alfred's expected landfall, as the weather bureau warns it could intensify to a Category 3 system. Residents in low-lying areas are advised to evacuate due to the risks of severe winds, heavy rainfall, and potential flooding. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and coordinating emergency response efforts to ensure public safety.
Sources: [SBS News - 5 March 2025](https://www.sbs.com.au/news/article/evacuations-begin-as-tropical-cyclone-alfred-expected-to-make-landfall/snux670do)