As Cyclone Alfred barrels towards the eastern coast of Australia, authorities are working tirelessly to ensure public safety. The storm is expected to make landfall early Saturday, bringing strong winds and heavy rainfall. In preparation, the government has taken a proactive approach, closing schools, suspending public transportation, and providing residents with essential items such as sandbags to mitigate the impact of flooding.
As of Thursday, 660 schools in southern Queensland and 280 schools in northern New South Wales were closed, with 310,000 sandbags already distributed in Brisbane, with more on the way. Public transportation was also suspended, and hospitals were limited to only emergency surgeries until the danger subsided. Meanwhile, strong winds caused power outages for around 4,500 homes and businesses in northern New South Wales.
As the cyclone approaches, residents are advised to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety. “We urge everyone to follow official warnings and the instructions of emergency services,” said Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. “Please check on your neighbors and ensure they have received critical emergency messages.”
The severity of the flooding is a major concern, with models predicting that up to 20,000 homes in Brisbane, a city largely situated on a floodplain, could be affected by varying levels of flooding. To date, the New South Wales State Emergency Service has responded to over 6,300 calls and more than 3,400 incidents across the Northern Rivers and Mid North Coast, with evacuation orders already issued in some areas, with more possible.
As the situation remains fluid, authorities are working around the clock to provide critical updates and support. “The primary concern is the widespread flooding, and we are urging everyone to take necessary precautions to ensure their safety,” said Bureau of Meteorology manager Matt Collopy. “We are monitoring the situation closely and will provide ongoing updates as the storm makes landfall.”
Residents should remain vigilant, stay informed, and follow official warnings to stay safe. With Cyclone Alfred barreling towards the eastern coast, it’s crucial that authorities, residents, and visitors alike stay informed and prepared to face the storm’s fury.
Original Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/world/cyclone-alfred-live-updates-schools-closed-transport-halted-as-tropical-cyclone-alfred-approaches-australian-coast-9871971/
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Publish Date: 2025-03-07 07:26:00
