Residents of Brisbane, Australia, were bracing for a once-in-a-blue-moon tropical cyclone, the first in 51 years to strike the region. Tropical Cyclone Alfred is forecast to strike late Thursday or early Friday, passing between Brisbane and Gold Coast with 95 kph sustained winds, gusts reaching 130 kph, and the threat of severe coastal erosion, flooding, and storm surges.
The cyclone is unusual for southeast Queensland, which does not usually experience tropical storms. Cyclone Zoe had hit the Gold Coast in 1974, resulting in widespread flooding. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese pointed out the uniqueness of the event, citing the necessity for preparation. His government is providing 250,000 sandbags to Queensland, adding to 80,000 already provided by the military.
Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner cautioned that as many as 20,000 houses in the city may be flooded, and evacuation centers will be established for those who need to be evacuated. Schools, public transport, and non-urgent surgeries in hospitals will be shut. Queensland Premier David Crisafulli urged residents to take the threat seriously, saying evacuations were already underway in the region.
Cyclones are common in Queensland’s tropical north but very rare in the state’s temperate south-east corner,” Albanese said. “That’s why it’s so important this preparatory work is done.