Aussies in two states are being urged to stay prepared and alert, with Tropical Cyclone Alfred projected to hit the coast of south-east Queensland and potentially some parts of north-east NSW later this week.
For local residents, this means bracing for anywhere between 200 to 400 millimetres of daily rainfall, wind gusts up to 120 kilometres per hour, and dangerous flash flooding.
If you’re in the area, here’s what you need to know.
What to expect from a cyclone
Cyclone Alfred is currently fluctuating between a category one and category two tropical cyclone.
According to the Queensland government’s Get Ready website, a category one cyclone typically comes with minimal house damage and some damage to some crops, trees and caravans.
Meanwhile, category two could expect to cause minor house damage, significant damage to signs and trees, heavy damage to crops, and potentially some power failures. Small boats can also become detached from their moorings.
What to do in the days ahead
Given the strong winds, residents can start preparations by securing loose items that could be blown about — think garden furniture, outdoor equipment, even bins.
Home maintenance is also recommended, including clearing gutters and pipes, trimming trees and branches, checking the condition of your roof, and repairing any broken seals around windows.
If you want to take it one step further, you could board up windows and doors or tape plastic sheeting to the inside to keep the rain out, and use sandbags to prevent further flooding.
It’s also recommended to prepare a water supply, which you can do by filling buckets and a bathtub with clean water in case there are any disruptions to water supply.
Importantly, in the event you need to shelter in your home during the cyclone, it’s best to identify the safest room in the house which is away from big windows.
While planning ahead, it’s also recommended to fuel up your vehicle in case you need to evacuate. Don’t forget to park it in a sheltered area, safe from trees or powerlines.
It’s also important to keep your phones and any electrical devices fully charged, in case there’s any power outages.
And of course, don’t forget your furry little friend! Make sure your pet’s microchipped (better safe than sorry), stock up on plenty of food for them too, and have a plan with friends or family in case you aren’t able to get home to them.
A bonus tip for those of us living in apartments: consider moving your car if your underground car park is at risk of flooding, and don’t forget to touch base with your building manager or body corporate for any other steps you might need to take.
In case you’re looking for additional resources, here are some online cyclone planning services for Queensland and for NSW.
Another helpful resource is the Australian Red Cross’s toolkit that includes information on how you can best mentally prepare for this. It points out that it’s not out of the question at all to feel some anxiety and stress in this situation — but it’s important to recognise the feelings and find some techniques (like breathing exercises) to help keep these feelings under control.
Have an emergency plan & kit
Authorities recommend having a plan in place so you know exactly what to do in case of severe weather events, which includes knowing where to evacuate if needed, where you can stay, and what you should take with you.
Given the possibility you might not be able to get to a pharmacy or supermarket for a supply run, there’s a few recommended items to have in an emergency kit in case the weather turns bad.
These include:
- Three days’ supply of food & water
- A battery powered radio
- A torch or glow sticks
- A week’s supply of any essential prescriptions as well as over-the-counter medicines
- Important documents (like your driver’s license, passport, and any vital legal papers)
- Spare cash (in case online or card services aren’t working)
- Wrench, pliers, a screwdriver, and a knife
- Activities and games to keep you entertained (like books or cards)
Here’s a more comprehensive list from Get Ready Queensland you can check out.
Have important numbers on hand
In today’s day and age, we wouldn’t be surprised if you don’t really know your parents’ or friends’ phone numbers — so it’s highly recommended to have them written down in case you need to reach them.
There are also a number of important hotlines to have on hand if you need any assistance, like Emergency (000) and State Emergency Services (132 500 for Queensland and NSW).
Stay prepared, stay safe out there!!
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