New Updates: Tropical Cyclone Alfred set to impact Southeast Queensland

Published on March 3, 2025

By: Paramita Sarkar

Tropical Cyclone Alfred is poised to impact southeast Queensland, marking a significant meteorological event for the region. As of March 3, 2025, Alfred is a Category 1 system located approximately 500 km northeast of Brisbane, with sustained winds near the center of 85 km/h and gusts up to 120 km/h.

The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) forecasts that Alfred will intensify to Category 2 status by Monday night and approach the southeast Queensland coast between Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast late Thursday or early Friday, March 6–7. ​

This impending landfall is notable, as it would be the first cyclone to strike this region in nearly 50 years, following Cyclone Wanda in 1974.

The areas potentially affected encompass major urban centers, including Brisbane, the Sunshine Coast, and the Gold Coast, collectively home to over 4 million residents.

Anticipated Impacts:

• Wind: Damaging wind gusts up to 120 km/h are expected along coastal fringes and island communities between Tewantin and Grafton starting Wednesday, with potential extension northward to Sandy Cape by late Wednesday or early Thursday. ​
• Rainfall: Heavy to locally intense rainfall may lead to dangerous flash flooding near and south of Alfred’s center as it nears the coast late Thursday or early Friday. Flood Watches have been issued for affected regions. ​
• Coastal Hazards: Abnormally high tides, hazardous surf, and potentially damaging swells are expected along the southeast Queensland and northeastern New South Wales coasts, with conditions worsening as Alfred approaches. ​

Preparatory Actions:

Residents are advised to:

• Stay Informed: Regularly monitor updates from the Bureau of Meteorology and local authorities for the latest forecasts and warnings. ​
• Secure Property: Clear yards and gutters, trim overhanging branches, and secure loose items that could become hazardous during high winds. ​
• Prepare Emergency Kits: Assemble a three-day emergency kit with essentials, including water, non-perishable food, medications, and important documents. ​
• Plan for Evacuations: Identify evacuation routes and centers, especially if residing in low-lying or flood-prone areas.
• Avoid Floodwaters: Refrain from driving or walking through flooded areas, as they can be deeper and more hazardous than they appear. ​

Government and Community Responses:

• Local Councils: The Sunshine Coast Council’s Local Disaster Management Group has escalated the warning status to “Stand Up,” advising residents to prepare for severe weather, including strong winds, dangerous surf, and potential flooding.
• Emergency Services: The Queensland State Emergency Service (SES) and other agencies are on high alert, ready to respond to incidents resulting from the cyclone’s impact. ​
• Public Facilities: Brisbane City Council has suspended all CityCat and ferry services until further notice to ensure public safety.

Historical Context:

Cyclone Alfred’s projected landfall in southeast Queensland is a rare event.

The last cyclone to make landfall in this region was Cyclone Wanda in 1974, which caused significant flooding in Brisbane.

This historical precedent underscores the importance of thorough preparation and vigilance among residents and authorities.

Conclusion:

Tropical Cyclone Alfred presents a serious threat to southeast Queensland, with potential impacts including damaging winds, heavy rainfall, and coastal hazards.

Residents are urged to stay informed, prepare their properties, and follow guidance from authorities to ensure safety during this significant weather event.