As Tropical Cyclone Alfred bears down on the southeastern coast of Queensland and northern New South Wales, authorities have intensified emergency measures to protect residents from its imminent impact.
The cyclone, currently classified as a Category 2 system, is anticipated to make landfall between late Friday and early Saturday, bringing with it destructive winds, heavy rainfall, and potential flooding.
In response to the escalating threat, approximately half a million residents in South-East Queensland have been instructed to remain indoors for a period of 24 to 36 hours, starting from 4 pm on Friday.
Credit: Reuters
This “shelter in place” directive aims to minimise accidents and ensure that emergency services can operate effectively during the cyclone’s passage. Already, over 300 requests for assistance have been lodged with the State Emergency Service (SES), and numerous incidents have been addressed by the Queensland Fire Department and local police.
Financial institutions have promptly stepped forward to provide relief to those affected by Cyclone Alfred. National Australia Bank (NAB) has opened applications for $1,000 Disaster Relief Grants for customers severely impacted by the cyclone.
Similarly, the Commonwealth Bank, ANZ, Westpac, Bank of Queensland (BOQ), and ING have announced various support options for personal and business customers in the affected regions. These measures are designed to offer immediate financial assistance to those grappling with the cyclone’s aftermath.
Additionally, the Emergency Hardship Assistance Grant is available to help individuals and families with immediate needs such as food, clothing, medical supplies, and temporary accommodation. Eligible individuals can apply for $180 per person, up to $900 for a family of five or more.
This grant is not income or asset tested, ensuring that those in urgent need can access support promptly.
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The cyclone’s slow and unpredictable trajectory has heightened concerns, with wind gusts expected to reach up to 155 km/h. Coastal regions between Cape Moreton and Yamba are bracing for extreme conditions, including six-hourly rainfall totals potentially reaching 180 mm and 24-hour totals up to 350 mm.
Major airlines have preemptively suspended flights in and out of the affected areas, and authorities are urging residents to prepare by securing properties and heeding evacuation orders where issued.
In northern New South Wales, evacuation orders have been issued for several locations due to the anticipated severe conditions, including destructive winds and life-threatening flash floods.
Communities such as Lismore and other flood-prone areas in the NSW Northern Rivers region have been advised to evacuate, with concerns that flooding could sever escape routes.
Numerous evacuation centers have been established, and hundreds of schools across south-east Queensland and northern NSW have been closed in anticipation of the cyclone’s impact.
As Cyclone Alfred approaches, residents are urged to stay informed through official channels, adhere to evacuation orders, and prioritize safety above all else. The coordinated efforts of emergency services, government agencies, and financial institutions aim to mitigate the cyclone’s impact and support affected communities during this challenging time.
