Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred, a slow-moving storm, is currently making its way towards the mainland coast, leaving residents on edge as they await its arrival. The system, which was previously classified as a category 1 storm, crossed Moreton Island around midnight before losing its cyclone status at 6 am today.
As of the latest update from the Bureau of Meteorology at 7:45 pm, the system is inching closer to the coast near Bribie Island, with a projected landfall within the next couple of hours. Located approximately 60 kilometers north-northeast of Brisbane and 45 kilometers south-southeast of Maroochydore, Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred’s sluggish pace has been a cause for concern.
Senior meteorologist Miriam Bradbury has characterized the storm as “extremely slow moving,” a description that is reflected in its impact on the affected regions. The cyclonic conditions have resulted in fallen trees and power lines, leading to power outages affecting over 295,000 properties in Queensland and more than 31,000 properties in northern New South Wales.
Queensland Premier David Crisafulli has described the situation as the “largest ever loss of power from a natural disaster in Queensland’s history,” surpassing the aftermath of previous cyclones like Yasi, Debbie, and Oswald. The sheer scale of the destruction underscores the severity of the situation, emphasizing the urgent need for recovery and restoration efforts.
Emergency Response and Relief Efforts
In light of the ex-cyclone’s impact, Australian Defence Force personnel have been deployed to assist emergency services in the affected areas. Tragically, a group of ADF members were injured in a crash in northern NSW, with several individuals in serious condition and requiring rescue from the vehicles.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese expressed his condolences, acknowledging the gravity of the situation and emphasizing the importance of supporting those affected. The focus remains on the welfare of the injured personnel and their families, underscoring the sacrifices made by emergency responders in times of crisis.
As authorities work to address the aftermath of Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred, emergency warnings in Queensland have been lifted, with watch and act advisories in place for residents along the Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast. The gradual return to normalcy is marked by the reopening of essential services and businesses, signaling a step towards recovery for the impacted communities.
Recovery and Rebuilding Efforts
Amidst the cleanup and restoration process, supermarkets like Coles and Woolworths have resumed operations in certain locations, with plans for further openings in the days ahead. Airlines such as Qantas, Jetstar, and Virgin have announced the resumption of flights from key airports, facilitating travel for both residents and visitors in the region.
Public transportation services, including buses in Brisbane, Moreton Bay, and other areas, are gradually returning to normal schedules, albeit with some limitations due to debris on train tracks. The lingering threat of strong winds and heavy rainfall underscores the need for continued vigilance, with flood warnings in effect for parts of south-east Queensland and northern New South Wales.
Looking ahead, the Bureau of Meteorology anticipates ongoing showers over the weekend as Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred makes its way inland, gradually losing strength in the process. While the worst may be over, the recovery phase is just beginning, highlighting the resilience and unity of communities in the face of natural disasters.
As the affected regions navigate the challenges posed by the ex-cyclone, the spirit of solidarity and support shines through, underscoring the importance of preparedness, response, and recovery in safeguarding lives and livelihoods. Stay informed and stay safe as we weather the storm together.