@ n2da
2025-03-05 20:37:35
# Overview
Tropical Cyclone Alfred, currently a Category 2 system, is approaching Australia's eastern coast, with landfall anticipated between the Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast early Friday. This rare event has prompted widespread preparations and warnings across Queensland and New South Wales. Authorities are urging residents in vulnerable areas to evacuate and brace for destructive winds, heavy rainfall, and potential life-threatening flooding. [TROPICAL CYCLONE FORECAST TRACK MAP](http://www.bom.gov.au/products/IDQ65002.shtml)
(Cover photo thanks to our 'unfortunately on the ground' photographer Sean. Stay safe mate!)
## Queensland and New South Wales Brace for Cyclone Alfred's Impact
### Summary:
Residents in Queensland and northern New South Wales are preparing for Tropical Cyclone Alfred, expected to make landfall early Friday between the Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast. The Category 2 storm is forecasted to bring severe winds and heavy rain, with potential for major flooding. Emergency measures include power outages, flight cancellations, school closures, and activation of emergency centers. The Australian Defence Force has been engaged to assist with response efforts.
Sources: [The Guardian - 6 March 2025](https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2025/mar/05/afternoon-update-wednesday-ntwnfb)
## Authorities Issue Evacuation Warnings Ahead of Cyclone Alfred
### Summary:
Australian authorities have issued major evacuation warnings ahead of Tropical Cyclone Alfred's expected landfall on Friday morning. The cyclone, categorized as Category 2, is anticipated to bring winds of 155 km/h and 800 mm of rainfall, potentially leading to dangerous and life-threatening conditions. Areas like Brisbane, the Gold Coast, and Sunshine Coast are in the cyclone's projected path. Residents in flood-prone and coastal areas are urged to evacuate and make necessary preparations, including stocking up on water and non-perishable food. The Australian government has declared a state of emergency and engaged the Australian Defence Force to assist with evacuation and disaster response efforts.
Sources: [The Sun - 6 March 2025](https://www.thesun.ie/news/14823247/tropical-cyclone-alfred-irish-people-evacuate-warning-australia/)
## Residents Prepare for First Cyclone in Over Five Decades
### 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.
Sources: [AP News - 6 March 2025](https://apnews.com/article/f40a46f400f42d7d94dc5a91cb11c11a)
## Cyclone Alfred's Approach Prompts Widespread Preparations
### Summary:
Cyclone Alfred, a Category 2 storm, is approaching the Tweed Coast near Brisbane, expected to make landfall late Thursday or early Friday. As tension mounts, residents are bracing for potential disaster with power outages and water contamination being the main concerns. Supermarkets are emptied of essential supplies, and emergency preparations, such as sandbagging and securing properties, are in full swing. The community displays remarkable solidarity, with neighbors helping one another and sharing real-time updates. Surfers are taking advantage of the monster swells, enjoying the waves despite the looming threat. Families face difficult decisions on whether to stay or evacuate, while prioritizing the safety and well-being of their loved ones. With a keen sense of unity and preparedness, the community waits in hope that their efforts will withstand the upcoming storm.
Sources: [News.com.au - 6 March 2025](https://www.news.com.au/technology/environment/every-nerve-jangling-queenslanders-prepare-for-disaster-as-cyclone-alfred-nears/news-story/23e6cd554103de012374c1ce238ba8c7)
## Cyclone Alfred's Unusual Path Raises Concerns
### Summary:
Australia is preparing for a rare tropical cyclone, named Alfred, approaching Brisbane. Authorities are urging residents in flood-prone suburbs to evacuate due to potential destructive wind gusts up to 155 kph and significant rainfall that could lead to life-threatening flash flooding. The storm is expected to land as a Category 2 cyclone early on Friday. Evacuation efforts are in place, with heavy-lift helicopters deployed and evacuation centers being opened. Schools and public transport will shut down, and flights have been canceled in the affected regions. This area of southeast Queensland and northern New South Wales has not experienced such a cyclone for over fifty years.
Sources: [Reuters - 6 March 2025](https://www.reuters.com/business/environment/australias-east-coast-braces-cyclone-alfred-2025-03-04/)
## Ice Cube Shares Experience Amid Cyclone Alfred
### Summary:
Ice Cube is currently staying at a beachfront hotel in Australia as Cyclone Alfred intensifies. The 55-year-old rapper and actor, who is there for upcoming performances, humorously commented about experiencing a cyclone for the first time. Residents in flood-prone regions have been advised to evacuate, with heavy rains and strong winds expected to cause potentially life-threatening flash floods and severe storm conditions. The cyclone is particularly significant for Queensland, which hasn't seen such severe weather in decades. Ice Cube also denied rumors of his involvement in an 'Anaconda' reboot being filmed in Australia, stating he was only there for his Sydney show.
Sources: [People - 6 March 2025](https://people.com/ice-cube-australian-hotel-cyclone-alfred-11691119)
## Cyclone Alfred's Impact on Northern New South Wales
### Summary:
Residents in Northern New South Wales are preparing for the impacts of Cyclone Alfred, with rainfalls of up to 400 millimeters expected, alongside winds of up to 150 kilometers per hour and likely flooding. The cyclone's approach has led to heightened concerns and preparations in the region.
Sources: [ABC News - 6 March 2025](https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-03-06/tropical-cyclone-alfred-northern-nsw/105014292)
## Authorities Urge Evacuations as Cyclone Alfred Nears
### Summary:
Residents in flood-prone suburbs of Brisbane and the Gold Coast are being urged to evacuate as Cyclone Alfred approaches. The storm is expected to bring destructive winds and heavy rainfall, leading to life-threatening flash flooding. Evacuation centers have been established, and emergency services are on high alert to assist those in need.
Sources: [The Guardian - 6 March 2025](https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/live/2025/mar/06/tropical-cylone-alfred-live-update-brisbane-queensland-nsw-suburbs-weather-bom-forecast-path-track-map-school-closures)