Cyclone Alfred has wreaked havoc across south-east Queensland and northern New South Wales, leaving hundreds of thousands without power and causing significant damage. By Sunday, fallen trees and downed powerlines had plunged many homes into darkness. As the cyclone weakened to a tropical low on Saturday, it remained the most southerly cyclone to threaten the region since Tropical Cyclone Zoe in 1974. Despite its weakened state, the storm still posed significant threats, equivalent to a tropical depression in the Atlantic basin.
Authorities prepared for the worst by late Friday, with personnel from the Australian Defence Force (ADF), state emergency services, and police strategically positioned to ensure a rapid response. The storm's delayed arrival, initially expected on Thursday night and then Friday morning, exacerbated anxiety among residents. Over the weekend, heavy rain emerged as the most pressing concern, with several flood warnings in place throughout south-east Queensland.
Destructive Waves and Flooding
The cyclone produced monumental waves that have left a lasting impression on the region. According to Stuart Nettle, editor of Swellnet, these waves will be remembered by Gold Coast surfers for years to come.
“The fourth and fifth of March are going to live on in infamy in the memory of Gold Coast surfers,” – Stuart Nettle, editor of Swellnet.
The storm's powerful waves carved cliffs measuring 4 to 6 meters (13 to 19 feet) into the sand along the Gold Coast, undermining beachside platforms' foundations. Acting Gold Coast City Council Mayor Donna Gates warned of the perilous conditions.
“The waves are horrendous, the beaches are hazardous,” – Donna Gates, acting Gold Coast City Council Mayor.
Despite warnings, some individuals continued to approach the dangerous beaches, prompting further caution from authorities.
“Please listen to us and stay away from the beaches. I keep repeating that because somehow, not everyone is listening.” – Donna Gates, acting Gold Coast City Council Mayor.
Rainfall and Power Outages
Heavy rainfall has compounded the challenges faced by residents. Hervey Bay, near K’Gari, recorded a staggering 230 millimeters (9 inches) of rain within just three hours on Sunday morning. This deluge has led to significant flooding concerns and power outages in numerous areas. Authorities have maintained several flood warnings for south-east Queensland, emphasizing the serious risk posed by ongoing flooding.
In addition to the power outages affecting hundreds of thousands of homes, the severe weather claimed a life. On Saturday, authorities located a body believed to belong to a 61-year-old man swept into floodwaters near Dorrigo in New South Wales on Friday afternoon.
Emergency Response and Accidents
The coordinated response effort involved various agencies working together to mitigate the cyclone's impact. However, an unfortunate accident involving two military trucks near Lismore on Saturday resulted in injuries to 13 ADF personnel, with six sustaining serious injuries.
As the cyclone's impact continues to unfold, the resilience and preparedness of communities and emergency services are being put to the test. Authorities remain vigilant as they address the immediate aftermath and prepare for further challenges posed by lingering rainfall and potential flooding.
