(SDGTALKING) Cyclone Alfred is bearing down on Australia's east coast, threatening millions of people in the region with high winds, heavy rainfall and flash flood risks. The category two cyclone is expected to make landfall near Brisbane on Saturday morning, although the estimated time of landfall has been moved forward from Friday morning. Meteorologists say the storm could have devastating effects as far as the border regions of Queensland and New South Wales, with flooding spreading over large areas.
Widespread Closures and Evacuations
Authorities have taken extraordinary measures to ensure the safety of the public:
Brisbane Airport halted commercial flight operations as of 4 p.m. on Thursday, but terminals were left open for defense operations.
Qantas Airlines suspended international flights out of Brisbane until noon on Saturday and domestic flights until Sunday morning.
Public transportation services were suspended and bus and train services were canceled.
More than 1,000 schools were closed in Queensland and 250 in northern New South Wales.
Power Outages and Emergency Response Teams
As a result of the strong winds and giant waves caused by the storm, there have been widespread power outages in the region. Authorities warned that more outages could occur as the winds accelerate. More than 5,000 households in southeast Queensland and thousands in New South Wales are currently without power.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the Australian Defense Force (ADF) is on the ground with emergency responders. Evacuations are being called for those living in areas at high risk of flooding, while authorities are warning people to be prepared and seek shelter in safe areas.
A Threat to Brisbane Not Seen in Over 50 Years
Cyclone Alfred has been described as an extraordinary weather event for Brisbane. The city was last hit by a major cyclone in 1974 and has narrowly escaped several major cyclones since then. The city of 2.7 million people has not been directly threatened by such a powerful cyclone for many years.
Meteorologists say the storm will bring prolonged rainfall and winds to the region, so damage could be greater than expected. Authorities say the public should heed evacuation warnings and that recovery from the disaster could take a long time.
The hurricane is expected to intensify its impact over the next 48 hours, while authorities advise the public to keep up to date through radio, TV and official announcements.
