Tropical Cyclone Alfred Triggers School and Business Closures in Queensland and Northern NSW
In anticipation of the approaching Tropical Cyclone Alfred, schools and businesses in southeast Queensland and northern New South Wales are suspending operations today and tomorrow. The cyclone, categorised as a level 2 storm, is predicted to make landfall late Thursday evening, bringing damaging winds, heavy rainfall, and a heightened risk of flash flooding.
Most Queensland schools are set to close on Thursday, although they remain open for supervision today. Schools on North Stradbroke and Moreton Bay islands are operating, but many childcare centres have already ceased operations, and universities are poised to halt classes from Thursday as well.
In northern New South Wales, over 100 schools have closed from Tweed Heads to Yamba, with the NSW Department of Education advising families that children should avoid attending school for the next three days. Some local childcare facilities are also closing their doors.
Sports events are being significantly affected by the cyclone. The AFL and NRL games scheduled for southeast Queensland are being postponed or relocated, including the AFL season opener between the Brisbane Lions and Geelong Cats. Other games, such as the NRL match between the Dolphins and Rabbitohs, have been moved to Sydney, while various sporting events across the region have been cancelled or postponed. The American rock band Green Day has also cancelled their concert scheduled for Wednesday, urging fans to "Stay safe out there!"
Many businesses in the region will close on Thursday, with councils shutting libraries, community centres, and recreational facilities. Supermarkets are seeing a surge in demand, with Coles and Woolworths reportedly working around the clock to restock.
Airports in Queensland and northern NSW remain operational, but airlines, including Virgin Australia and Qantas, are advising passengers to stay informed regarding potential flight changes and offering flexible travel options. Public transport has already begun to experience disruptions, with Brisbane River and Southern Moreton Bay Island ferry services suspended and bus routes in the Redlands area also cancelled. Further cancellations of bus and train services across Queensland are expected as the cyclone draws nearer.
Travel warnings have been issued, advising residents in affected areas to avoid non-essential journeys. Currently, no major road closures have been reported in Queensland or northern NSW, but residents are encouraged to prepare accordingly as Cyclone Alfred approaches.