Tropical Cyclone Alfred has intensified to Category 2 and is barrelling towards Australia’s eastern coast, threatening to be one of the most destructive storms for the region.
Authorities are warning of damaging winds, heavy rain, storm surges, and coastal erosion, with landfall expected late Thursday or early Friday north of Brisbane.
On Tuesday, Alfred was 600km east of the Queensland-New South Wales border, taking a sudden turn westward after several days of southeast movement.
“Tropical Cyclone Alfred has just changed direction and is now heading towards the QLD Coast,” the premier, David Crisafulli, said on Tuesday evening on social media.
“We’re prepared for this weather event and we’re asking Queenslanders to do the same.
“Be prepared and stay informed.”
The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) said the storm will maintain Category 2 strength, with winds of 100kmph and gusts up to 150kmph when it reaches the coast.
The cyclone could still shift slightly, but the most likely landfall area is between Bribie Island and Noosa, with gale-force winds expected to develop within 24 hours.
Authorities say rainfall and flooding will be the most significant threat, with 300-600mm of rain expected in some areas and localised totals reaching 700mm.
Flood watches are in effect from Bundaberg to Port Macquarie, and Brisbane City Council has warned that 20,000 homes could be impacted by flooding.
Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner has urged residents in flood-prone areas, including Nudgee Beach, Brighton, Windsor, Ashgrove, Morningside, and Rocklea, to consider relocating before the storm arrives.
“Properties could experience anything from mild inundation in their yards to significant flooding in their homes,” he said.
The strongest winds will be felt near and south of landfall, particularly in Brisbane, the Gold Coast, and inland regions of northern New South Wales.
Gale-force winds are expected to increase from Wednesday, with destructive gusts up to 150kmph possible in elevated areas.
