Tropical Cyclone in Australia
Australia is bracing for a rare east coast tropical cyclone headed towards Brisbane, its third-most populous city, with destructive wind gusts and heavy rainfall expected, prompting evacuation orders and closure of schools and public transport.
Key Points
- Storm warnings are in effect for 311 miles of the coast in Queensland and New South Wales.
- Cyclone Alfred is expected to make landfall as a Category 2 storm near Brisbane on Friday.
- Total rainfall could reach 31.5 inches, posing a significant risk of flash flooding.
- Last cyclone to hit the region was over 50 years ago in 1974.
- Schools and public transport will be closed on Thursday and Friday in affected areas.
Pros
- Authorities are urging residents in flood-prone suburbs to evacuate, potentially saving lives.
- Heavy-lift helicopters have been deployed to assist in emergency response efforts.
Cons
- Destructive wind gusts of up to 96 mph and heavy rainfall could cause damage and life-threatening flash flooding.
- Sandbags are in short supply and supermarket shelves have been stripped bare, indicating potential shortages.