Cyclone Alfred latest: Storm already ‘packing a punch’ as 70k without power across Gold Coast and NSW
Thousands of residents in eastern Australia have been ordered to evacuate as Cyclone Alfred lashes the region with torrential rain, fierce winds, and towering waves, causing widespread power outages, beach erosion, and airport closures.
Wind gusts exceeding 100kmph pummelled the coastal border between Queensland and New South Wales overnight, while the storm remains approximately 200km offshore, according to the Bureau of Meteorology. It is due to make landfall early on Saturday.
Queensland premier David Crisafulli said the cyclone had already brought heavy rain and widespread disruption to the state. “Overnight we saw it packed a punch,” he said.
Power has been cut to 70,000 homes across the Gold Coast and New South Wales. Brisbane Airport suspended operations on Thursday afternoon, while public transport across the city has been halted. Authorities have also shut more than 1,000 schools in southeast Queensland and 280 in northern New South Wales.
Despite the dangerous conditions, television footage captured surfers riding massive swells and people walking along the shoreline. Prime minister Anthony Albanese urged the public to “be sensible”.“This isn’t a time for sightseeing or for seeing what it’s like to experience these conditions firsthand. Please stay safe,” Mr Albanese said.
