Thu Mar 06 05:52:42 UTC 2025: ## Cyclone Alfred Bears Down on Eastern Australia, Prompts Widespread Preparations
**BRISBANE, Australia (March 6, 2025)** – Tropical Cyclone Alfred, the first to threaten Brisbane since 1974, is expected to make landfall as a Category 2 storm along Australia’s southeast coast early Saturday, prompting widespread school closures, transport shutdowns, and a rush on emergency supplies.
Early wind and rain have already lashed Queensland and northern New South Wales, with gusts reaching 80-90 kph. Over 4 million people are in the cyclone’s path, including the city of Brisbane, which is bracing for potential flooding. Authorities predict that up to 20,000 homes in Brisbane could be affected.
A shortage of sandbags has led residents to creatively source alternatives, such as potting mix. Supermarket shelves have been stripped bare, and public transport has been suspended in affected areas. Power outages affecting 4,500 homes and businesses have been reported in northern New South Wales. Hospitals are limiting surgeries to emergencies.
The Australian government has responded by delivering 310,000 sandbags to Brisbane, with more on the way. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese assured residents of federal support and emphasized the closure of 660 schools in southern Queensland and 280 in northern New South Wales.
Meteorologists initially predicted a faster landfall, but the cyclone’s slower movement means prolonged exposure to heavy rain and damaging winds. A record 12.3-meter wave was recorded off the Gold Coast on Wednesday night. Emergency services are preparing for evacuations in low-lying areas. The situation remains fluid, and residents are urged to heed official warnings and remain vigilant.
First Piper 