A cyclone is expected to make landfall in major cities in the most popular country for British expats, with the Foreign Office issuing a warning
The Foreign Office has issued a new warning this week for Brits traveling to Australia, specifically Queensland and New South Wales, ahead of the expected arrival of Cyclone Alfred.
More than one million people born in the UK live in the Commonwealth nation, which is also one of our favourite spots for a sunny break during our winters. The Category 2 cyclone is predicted to hit between Noosa and Brisbane, bringing strong winds of up to 130 km/h, heavy rain, and the risk of flooding.
In light of this, the Foreign Office advised: “Tropical cyclones affect some parts of Australia, mainly Queensland, Northern Territory and Western Australia. The cyclone season normally runs from November to April. Tropical cyclone Alfred is forecast to bring adverse weather to Brisbane, the Sunshine Coast, Gold Coast, South East Queensland and Northern New South Wales from Wednesday 5 March.”
“This could result in localised flash flooding and severe coastal hazards which could lead to transport disruption and power outages. You should monitor weather updates and follow the advice of local authorities.”
With the cyclone closing in, locals and visitors are bracing for flash floods, significant coastal hazards, and disruptions to transport and power.
The severe weather forecast has prompted the postponement of major sports fixtures, including the AFL’s Brisbane vs Geelong and NRL’s Dolphins vs South Sydney matches, reports the Express.
Brisbane City Council has issued a warning that as many as 20,000 homes could be affected by flooding and storm surges as Cyclone Alfred bears down on the city. Evacuation warnings have also been put in place, with predictions of up to 700mm of rain and significant storm surges posing a threat to coastal areas.
Although Australia is no stranger to cyclones, seeing an average of four each year, Alfred stands out due to its unusually southern trajectory.