Residents and Rough Sleepers Grapple with Imminent Cyclone Alfred in Queensland
Tropical Cyclone Alfred is nearing Queensland, prompting evacuation warnings for residents and holiday-makers. Up to 20,000 homes may face flooding, with evacuation centers opening on the Gold Coast. Individuals sleeping rough have expressed concerns about where to go, while businesses prepare for the storm’s arrival.
As Tropical Cyclone Alfred approaches Queensland, residents and tourists have received warnings to secure their properties or evacuate to safer areas, particularly those in low-lying regions. The storm is expected to impact up to 20,000 homes with potential flooding. Evacuation centers on the Gold Coast will begin operating tomorrow, although Brisbane City has yet to confirm the availability of additional services.
The cyclone is projected to make landfall north of Brisbane on Thursday evening or Friday morning, prompting holiday-makers and individuals experiencing homelessness to leave the designated path of the storm. On Tuesday afternoon, the cyclone shifted towards Brisbane’s northern suburbs and Bribie Island, with peak storm surges anticipated. Risk areas include Nudgee Beach, Brighton, Windsor, Ashgrove, Morningside, and Rocklea, with the Bureau of Meteorology indicating varying flooding levels as the cyclone passes through.
Jamie, a rough sleeper in Brisbane, expressed uncertainty about where to seek refuge after police advised him to leave his tent due to the cyclone’s approach. “I think we’re going to have to hide somewhere,” he stated, concerned that his tent would not be sufficient for protection. Meanwhile, Micah Projects, a local organization, is working to provide accommodation for affected individuals and has plans to offer shelter in Kurilpa Hall in West End.
Karyn Walsh from Micah Projects confirmed their efforts to assist those without homes in finding safe shelter. Premier David Crisafulli noted that critical response teams and community organizations are actively supporting the homeless population. Some tourists have already evacuated sites like the Scarborough Holiday Village, while others have opted to hunker down in their accommodations, securing belongings as they await the cyclone’s impact.
Local businesses and restaurants are preparing for the approaching cyclone, with employees filling sandbags and devising strategies to manage stormwater concerns. Matthew Ingold, a worker at a beachfront venue, remarked on the unpredictability of the situation, noting preparations including floodgates and sandbag stockpiles. Meanwhile, some events, such as weddings scheduled for Friday, may need to be postponed due to the impending storm.
Surfers have also been affected, with professional surfer Lilliana Bowrey sharing her experience of damaging her board amidst strong conditions. Despite the challenges, she expressed gratitude for the opportunity to ride the waves while she could. Fellow surfer Sheldon Simpkus echoed this sentiment, describing the remarkable surfing conditions at Kirra and acknowledging the considerable impact of the cyclone on the surfing community.
In conclusion, as Tropical Cyclone Alfred approaches Queensland, residents, tourists, and vulnerable populations face significant risks from flooding and severe weather. Evacuations are encouraged, particularly for those in low-lying areas, while various organizations are mobilizing to support individuals experiencing homelessness. With preparations underway across the region, both residents and businesses remain hopeful for safety while bracing for the storm’s impact.
Original Source: www.abc.net.au
