Despite being downgraded from a Category 1 cyclone to a tropical low, ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred continues to inflict widespread damage across southeastern Queensland and northeastern New South Wales, leaving hundreds of thousands without power and facing significant flood risks.
The slow-moving weather system has caused extensive disruption, with heavy rainfall, strong winds, and dangerous flooding conditions persisting across the region. While the intensity of the winds has decreased, the persistent rainfall has saturated catchments, leading to heightened flood warnings and ongoing evacuations.
Power Outages and Infrastructure Damage
One of the most significant impacts of Cyclone Alfred has been the widespread power outages. Reports indicate that over 250,000 homes and businesses across Queensland and northern New South Wales have been left without electricity.
- Queensland: The Gold Coast has been particularly hard-hit, with a substantial number of properties experiencing power cuts. Energy providers warn that full restoration could take several days, possibly up to a week, due to the extent of the damage and ongoing hazardous conditions.
- New South Wales: Significant power outages have also been reported in areas from Tweed Heads to Grafton. Crews are working tirelessly to restore power, but ongoing flooding and road closures are hampering their efforts.
The power outages have also disrupted telecommunications, with mobile and internet services affected in many areas. Telecommunication companies are deploying generators and other resources to restore connectivity, particularly at critical locations such as evacuation centers.
Flood Risks and Evacuations
Despite the downgrade, the risk of flooding remains a major concern. The heavy rainfall has caused rivers to rise, and saturated ground has increased the likelihood of flash flooding.
- Authorities have issued numerous flood warnings for catchments across both states, urging residents to remain vigilant and avoid floodwaters.
- Evacuation orders remain in place for thousands of people in low-lying areas, and emergency services are continuing to monitor the situation closely.
- The NSW SES have performed numerous flood rescues, showing the serious risk that is still being presented by the flood waters.
- There has also been reports of people being hospitalized with carbon monoxide poisoning, due to the misuse of generators indoors. This is a very serious warning to all residents, to make sure that generators are only used in well ventilated outdoor areas.
Government Response and Community Support
The federal and state governments have activated disaster recovery plans, providing financial assistance and support to affected communities.
- Disaster recovery payments have been made available to eligible residents, and support is being provided to local councils for clean-up and recovery efforts.
- There has also been increased funding for disaster recovery funding arrangements, to help the affected areas.
- Emergency services personnel, volunteers, and community members are working together to provide assistance to those in need.
Ongoing Concerns and Precautions
Even as the weather system weakens, authorities are urging residents to remain cautious.
- The risk of flash flooding and dangerous conditions persists, and people are advised to avoid unnecessary travel and stay away from floodwaters.
- Residents are also reminded to be aware of the dangers of fallen power lines and to exercise caution when using generators.
- Residents are also being warned to be aware of the dangers that damaged infrastructure can present.
The situation remains dynamic, and authorities are continuing to monitor the weather conditions closely. Residents are advised to stay informed through official sources and follow the instructions of emergency services.
