Tropical Cyclone Alfred has wreaked havoc on Australia's eastern coast, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. The cyclone, initially classified as a tropical storm, unleashed torrential rains and fierce winds, causing extensive flooding and power outages. Brisbane experienced record rainfall, with nearly a month's worth of rain falling in just two hours.
The severe weather conditions have resulted in the tragic loss of life, with one man drowning in New South Wales after his car was swept into a river. In Queensland, widespread flooding affected hundreds of thousands of households, leaving them without electricity. The storm's impact was felt in cities like Hervey Bay and Gold Coast, where homes were inundated, and schools were forced to close.
The Australian government has been swift in its response, deploying rescue teams and planning to introduce generators to aid affected areas. However, the danger has not fully subsided, as authorities warn of potential bacterial threats like Melioidosis in the aftermath of the flooding. Despite the cyclone's downgrade to a tropical low, its effects continue to challenge recovery efforts.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has acknowledged the heroism of soldiers injured while assisting in relief operations. The nation remains on high alert as weather forecasts predict further rain and damaging winds. As communities rally to rebuild, the focus remains on ensuring safety and restoring normalcy in the storm-devastated regions.
