In the lead-up to Tropical Cyclone Alfred, which has intensified into a category 2 storm, Queensland residents have begun panic buying essential supplies, particularly water and bread, leaving supermarket shelves bare. Images from 9News depict the frantic rush to stock up as the cyclone approaches, prompting Queensland Premier David Crisafulli to encourage supermarkets to increase restocking efforts multiple times a day. He emphasised the importance of residents securing their essential items and preparing for potential power outages.
According to the Bureau of Meteorology, the cyclone, currently situated approximately 465 kilometres north-east of Brisbane, is expected to shift south-east today before making a turn towards the coast by tomorrow or Wednesday. Predictions indicate that it could make landfall by Thursday or Friday. Steven Bernasconi from the Bureau noted that if the cyclone impacts a populated area in South East Queensland, it would be the first occurrence of such an event in over half a century.
Supermarkets are gearing up for the impending storm. A spokesperson from Coles stated that they are making every effort to keep stores fully stocked as Cyclone Alfred approaches, with additional deliveries prioritising meat, milk, bread, water, canned goods, baby formula, and toilet paper. Preparations for this have been underway since the previous week and will continue throughout the current week. Coles reassured the public that they are well-prepared to serve the communities that may be affected by the cyclone.
As the state braces for this significant weather event, the focus remains on ensuring that everyone has access to necessary supplies amidst the potential risks posed by the cyclone.