Cyclone Alfred: More than 42,000 without power in NSW and 250,000 without power in Queensland Essential Energy says 42,600 homes and businesses without power between Tweed Heads and Grafton Essential Energy – a NSW-owned electricity infrastructure provider – has provided an update on the number of homes and businesses without power in the state`s north.
As at 11am, there are just over 42,600 homes and businesses without power in various communities between Tweed Heads and Grafton due to the impacts of Tropical Cyclone Alfred.
Weather conditions are predicted to deteriorate this afternoon and into the evening that is expected to bring more rain and hamper electricity restoration efforts.
Tropical Cyclone Alfred is forecast to hit land either late on Friday or early on Saturday, packing the punch of a Category 1 hurricane in the Atlantic. It has slowed down as it moves westward towards Brisbane, a city of 2.5 million inhabitants.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, who was briefed by the National Emergency Management Agency on Thursday, stated, “The obvious concern with the storm’s deceleration is that it will likely grow stronger.”
What is Cyclone Alfred?
Cyclone Alfred is an extremely rare Category 2 tropical cyclone currently tracking towards Australia’s southeastern coastline. The storm poses a significant threat to regions in Queensland and New South Wales, with widespread warnings issued by authorities.
How Did Cyclone Alfred Form?
Cyclone Alfred began forming in the Coral Sea in late February 2025, driven by above-average sea surface temperatures. The storm intensified rapidly as it moved westward, with forecasts suggesting it could strengthen into a Category 3 system before making landfall.
Current Path of Cyclone Alfred
Where is Cyclone Alfred Now?
As of March 5, Cyclone Alfred is approximately 400 kilometers east of Brisbane, packing wind speeds of up to 120 kilometers per hour. The storm is tracking towards the southeastern coastline, with landfall expected between the Sunshine Coast and the Gold Coast by early Friday morning.
Cyclone Alfred’s Projected Impact Zone
Meteorologists predict the storm’s path could place Brisbane and its surrounding areas directly in the cyclone’s trajectory, raising concerns of destructive winds, heavy rainfall, and coastal flooding.
Millions of people living along Australia’s eastern seaboard are bracing themselves for the arrival of a cyclone, the furthest south such a storm has menaced the area in over half a century.
Official Warnings and Evacuation Orders
What Are Authorities Advising?
Queensland Premier David Crisafulli has urged residents to act immediately. He stated, “There is a chance this cyclone will cross in the middle of the night with a high tide. That is not the time to be making your evacuation plan, now is the time.”
Evacuation Orders
Evacuation orders have been issued for flood-prone areas. Residents are being directed to nearby emergency shelters, while schools and public transport services have been suspended in high-risk regions.
Airport Closures and Flight Cancellations
Cyclone Alfred is already causing widespread travel disruptions across southeast Queensland and northern New South Wales:
- Gold Coast Airport: Closed from 4pm today until further notice, with evacuees directed to Burleigh Waters Community Centre.
- Ballina Byron Gateway Airport: All flights cancelled for Wednesday and Thursday, affecting 22 scheduled flights.
- Coffs Harbour Airport: Flights suspended from midnight Wednesday until at least midday Thursday.
- Lord Howe Island: All Qantas flights have been cancelled.
Potential Impacts of Cyclone Alfred
Destructive Winds
Wind speeds could reach up to 130 kilometers per hour, posing risks to buildings, power lines, and vegetation.
Heavy Rainfall and Flash Flooding
Authorities anticipate up to 800 millimeters of rainfall in some areas, triggering flash flooding and dangerous road conditions.
Storm Surges
Coastal communities are at high risk of storm surges, which could intensify flooding during high tides.
Emergency Services and Community Response
Government Mobilization
The New South Wales State Emergency Service (NSW SES) and Queensland authorities have deployed extra personnel and resources to vulnerable areas. Community meetings are providing real-time updates on evacuation protocols and safety measures.
Community Support
Local communities have shown strong solidarity, assisting neighbors and sharing supplies. However, panic buying has led to shortages of essential items in supermarkets.
Climate Change and Cyclone Alfred
Experts suggest that warmer sea surface temperatures caused by climate change may be fueling Cyclone Alfred’s intensity. While the frequency of cyclones is not expected to rise, their severity and rainfall potential are likely to increase.
Safety Tips for Residents
- Follow evacuation orders without delay.
- Prepare an emergency kit with essential supplies.
- Stay updated through emergency apps and official alerts.
- Secure outdoor furniture and loose items.
- Avoid driving through floodwaters.
Conclusion
Cyclone Alfred presents a significant threat to southeast Queensland and northern New South Wales. Residents are urged to act now by following evacuation orders and preparing for potential impacts. Government agencies, emergency services, and communities are working together to minimize the storm’s destruction. Stay informed with continuous updates and official warnings as the cyclone approaches.
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