Southeast Queensland is bracing for the impact of Tropical Cyclone Alfred, expected to make landfall late Thursday as a Category 2 storm. This marks the first cyclone to hit so far south in half a century, since ex-Tropical Cyclone Zoe in 1974.
Cyclone Alfred, which initially formed over the Coral Sea nine days ago, intensified to a severe Category 4 storm before weakening as it moved into cooler waters. However, it has now regained strength and changed direction, making a direct approach toward Queensland’s heavily populated coastal areas.
With wind gusts reaching up to 164 km/h, the cyclone is expected to cause damage to homes, trees, power lines, and beachside infrastructure along the Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast. Authorities have issued a flood watch for regions from Maryborough to New South Wales’ Northern Rivers, warning of heavy rainfall, flash floods, and river surges.
Coral Sea cyclones are notoriously difficult to predict due to shifting wind patterns and high-pressure systems that can push them in multiple directions. Initially, Alfred seemed destined to weaken offshore, but a sudden shift westward driven by changing atmospheric conditions now places it on a collision course with land.
Once it makes landfall, Alfred is expected to weaken rapidly into a tropical low over southern Queensland before drifting back offshore, where it will dissipate. However, its impact on coastal communities, power supplies, and infrastructure is likely to be felt long after it fades. Residents are urged to prepare for strong winds, heavy rainfall, and possible disruptions in the coming days.