Severe Tropical Cyclone Alfred Approaches Queensland Coast
Severe Tropical Cyclone Alfred is making its way towards the coast of Queensland, generating strong winds and tumultuous surf conditions. The cyclone is currently situated over the Coral Sea, with the Bureau of Meteorology warning of gale-force winds affecting the southern Great Barrier Reef Islands and extending to K’gari over the weekend.
Senior meteorologist Jonathan How from the Bureau expressed a "high confidence" that the cyclone would maintain a position well offshore in the coming days. The cyclone is predicted to head towards the coast today, followed by a southeast movement over the weekend. By Tuesday, it is expected to slow down before shifting back toward southern Queensland by mid-week.
A severe weather warning is in effect for parts of the Capricornia, Wide Bay and Burnett, and Southeast Coast Forecast Districts as conditions worsen. Alfred is generating a wide swath of gale-force winds on its southwestern side, which raises concerns that the system may edge close enough to the shoreline to produce periods of gales and damaging wind gusts, particularly through tonight and into Sunday.
Additionally, an ongoing coastal hazard warning is in place for the Wide Bay and Southeast Coast regions of Queensland. Areas that may experience adverse weather include Bundaberg, Gladstone, Hervey Bay, K’gari, Miriam Vale, and Rainbow Beach. Communities along the southern Queensland and northeast New South Wales coasts have been advised to closely monitor the evolving conditions.
Authorities continue to keep a close watch on the cyclone’s movement and its potential impact on the coast. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and prepare for possible severe weather.