Authorities in Queensland and northern New South Wales (NSW), Australia, issued evacuation warnings as Cyclone Alfred intensified. The category 2 storm is moving slowly and impacting coastal communities with heavy rainfall, damaging winds, and dangerous surf.
The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) warned of severe flooding, especially in low-lying areas. Schools are closed in affected areas, and public transport is suspended. Ballina, NSW, is on high alert for storm surges.
Grocery stores are closing, and supply chains are expected to be disrupted. Airlines have announced cancellations and delays for flights to and from Brisbane and the Gold Coast. Tourism operators have suspended outdoor activities. Recovery efforts are expected to be a priority.