Tropical Cyclone Alfred Hits Eastern Australia, Sparks Widespread Evacuations and Power Outages
Tropical Cyclone Alfred leads to evacuations and power outages for over 80,000 homes across Australia's east coast, marking the region's first cyclone in 51 years.
Overview
As Tropical Cyclone Alfred approaches the eastern coast of Australia, over 80,000 homes face power outages, and evacuation orders affect thousands in Queensland and New South Wales. The cyclone, with winds up to 130 kph, is forecast to make landfall Saturday, causing significant disruption. Emergency services are searching for a missing man swept away in floodwaters, while residents prepare for severe weather conditions. This historic cyclone is the first to impact Brisbane since 1974, highlighting the increasing frequency of such events due to climate change.
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Analysis
- The severe weather, including Tropical Cyclone Alfred, is causing significant disruptions, with tens of thousands losing power and being evacuated due to flood risks.
- Authorities are monitoring the cyclone's trajectory closely as it approaches the densely populated areas of Queensland and New South Wales, emphasizing that exact predictions are uncertain.
- The cyclone could bring destructive winds and heavy rainfall, raising concerns for flooding, especially in regions still recovering from past disasters.
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Associated Press·4M·FAQ
Tropical Cyclone Alfred is expected to make landfall between Noosa and Coolangatta, likely in the early hours of Saturday morning.
Over 41,000 homes were initially reported to be affected by power outages, with this number increasing significantly as the cyclone approaches.
Authorities have issued evacuation orders, closed schools and airports, and activated the Australian Defence Force to assist with preparations and emergency responses. Additionally, sandbags have been distributed to affected areas.
Cyclone Alfred marks the first cyclone to impact Brisbane in over 50 years, highlighting the rarity of such events in the region.
History
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