Residents of the Gold Coast are being urged to prepare as Tropical Cyclone Alfred, now a Category 2 system, slowly approaches Queensland’s coast. According to the Bureau of Meteorology, the cyclone is expected to bring extreme winds, torrential rain, significant storm surges, and potential flooding—with landfall possible as early as Wednesday.
What to Expect
- Unpredictable Conditions:
The Bureau of Meteorology warns that the situation remains highly unpredictable, even if the cyclone weakens slightly. - Severe Weather Impacts:
- Extreme Winds: Capable of downing trees, powerlines, and causing structural damage with airborne debris.
- Heavy Rainfall and Flooding: Intense rainfall and storm surges are forecast to increase flood risks, especially in low-lying areas.
- Coastal Hazards: Abnormally high tides may exacerbate coastal flooding, with large waves contributing to coastal erosion.
- Infrastructure Disruption:
Extended outages in power, internet, telephone, and water services are anticipated, with potential road blockages from fallen trees or powerlines.
How to Prepare
Home and Personal Safety
- Secure Your Home:
- Fasten or store outdoor items (e.g. furniture, gas bottles, play equipment).
- If your home is not cyclone-safe, consider making alternative accommodation arrangements.
- Prepare an Emergency Kit:
Assemble essential supplies for at least one week. For a comprehensive checklist, visit Get Ready Queensland. - Vehicle Precautions:
Ensure your car is fuelled and parked in a safe, sheltered location away from trees. - Utility Shutdown:
Learn how to safely switch off power, solar, water, and gas if required during the cyclone.
Medical and Special Needs Preparations
- Medication:
Secure a minimum of a week’s supply of essential medications. - Powered Medical Equipment:
If anyone in your household relies on devices such as ventilators or dialysis machines, plan an alternative location in case of power loss. - Emergency Plan Activation:
If you have a Person-Centred Emergency Plan, activate it immediately.
Tourism, Camping, and Caravanning
- Evacuation Consideration:
Those near beaches, canals, or waterways should consider evacuating promptly. - Shelter Information:
If staying in the area, confirm designated shelter locations with your accommodation provider.
Maritime Safety
- Boat Security:
- Secure your watercraft on land if possible.
- For the latest updates, consult the Marine Safety Queensland Dashboard.
- On-Board Precautions:
Ensure that all passengers wear life jackets and monitor VHF marine channels 16 and 73.
Emergency Contacts and Information
- Life-Threatening Emergencies:
Dial Triple Zero (000) immediately. - Floods and Storms:
Contact the Queensland State Emergency Service (QLD SES) on 132 500. More details are available on the QLD SES website. - Power Outages:
Check for updates via Energex. - Road Closures:
Visit the QLD Traffic website or call 13 19 40. - Weather Updates:
Stay informed through the Bureau of Meteorology Queensland. - Public Transport Disruptions:
For the latest information, visit Translink. - Local Emergency Broadcasts:
Tune in to ABC Gold Coast (91.7FM) for ongoing updates. - Injured Wildlife:
Call the Wildcare emergency hotline on 07 5527 2444.
