Tropical Cyclone Alfred Threatens Eastern Australia, Triggering Mass Preparations

Australia is bracing for Tropical Cyclone Alfred, expected to make landfall near Brisbane on Thursday evening local time. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stated the cyclone poses a significant threat to Queensland and New South Wales, potentially impacting over 13 million people with destructive winds, heavy rainfall exceeding 500mm, and severe flooding. Over 500 schools have been closed in anticipation of the storm, which is categorized as a Category 2 cyclone with winds between 95 and 130 kilometers per hour. Authorities have not yet ordered evacuations but have activated emergency communication and prevention systems. The Australian Defence Force is prepared to assist. Cyclone Alfred marks the first direct impact on Brisbane since Cyclone Nancy in 1990.