Cyclone Alfred may have lost its title as a tropical cyclone, but its devastating effects are far from over. The system, now classified as a tropical low, continues to lash Australia’s East Coast with torrential rain and powerful winds. Over 300,000 people in Queensland and New South Wales (NSW) remain without electricity, and authorities are warning that flooding risks are far from over.
Severe Weather Threat Remains Despite Downgrade
Even as the storm weakens, the damage is widespread. The Bureau of Meteorology reported that heavy rainfall, capable of triggering flash floods, is still developing. Nine locations in Queensland—including Brisbane—remain at high risk. In NSW, flood warnings are in place for 11 locations, with rivers swelling under the persistent downpour.
The storm, which started as a Category 2 cyclone, weakened to a Category 1 before making landfall on Moreton Island. By the time it reached Brisbane, it had further degraded into a tropical low. However, the reduction in classification does little to comfort those facing rising waters and infrastructure damage. Authorities continue to urge residents to stay alert, as rivers and catchment areas respond unpredictably to the heavy rainfall.
Mass Power Outages Leave Thousands in the Dark
As of Monday morning, more than 316,540 properties remain without power across southeast Queensland and NSW. Emergency crews are working around the clock to restore services, but some areas may be in the dark for days. High winds and falling trees have brought down power lines, making restoration efforts even more challenging.
For many residents, the situation is dire:
- Some homes have already been submerged, with residents forced to evacuate.
- Power outages have disrupted water supplies in some rural areas.
- Public transport remains heavily impacted, with delays and cancellations across affected regions.
Energy providers are prioritizing critical infrastructure, including hospitals and emergency service hubs, but residents in remote areas may face an extended wait before power is fully restored.
Federal Government Steps In with Disaster Assistance
With the scale of devastation mounting, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has activated the Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment. The one-off financial assistance package offers $1,000 for adults and $400 for children affected by the storm.
In addition, the federal government has postponed the upcoming national election. Originally scheduled for April, the election will now be pushed back to allow authorities to focus on disaster response and recovery efforts. While a new date has not yet been confirmed, the election must legally take place by mid-May.
Albanese addressed the nation, stating, “Our priority is ensuring the safety and well-being of every Australian impacted by this storm. The election can wait—right now, our focus is on rebuilding and recovery.”
Rising Floodwaters Pose Continued Danger
Despite Alfred’s downgrade, authorities are particularly concerned about floodwaters. Rivers are still rising, and with more rain expected, the risk of flash flooding remains severe. Emergency services have already performed multiple rescues, with some people trapped in their homes or vehicles as water levels rapidly rose overnight.
Residents are being urged to follow evacuation orders and stay off flooded roads. Even a small amount of moving water can be deadly, and emergency responders have already warned that more casualties could occur if people take unnecessary risks.
Table: Key Impact Areas of Cyclone Alfred
| Affected Region | Power Outages | Flood Warnings | Notable Damage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Queensland | 200,000+ | 9 locations | Homes submerged, transport disruptions |
| NSW | 116,000+ | 11 locations | Road closures, river levels rising |
| Brisbane | Widespread | High risk | Strong winds, tree damage |
Authorities stress that while the worst of the winds may have passed, the lingering flood risk could be even more destructive.
What’s Next?
Weather officials predict continued heavy rain in the coming days, particularly in flood-prone areas. Cleanup efforts will take weeks, if not months, in some of the hardest-hit communities. For now, emergency crews remain on high alert, and residents are being advised to take every precaution. As Australia reels from the impact of Cyclone Alfred, the road to recovery is just beginning.
