Residents are stacking sandbags to protect low-lying properties ahead of a tropical cyclone that is forecast to become the first in 51 years to hit the Australian east coast near Brisbane, the nation’s third-most populous city
Residents in Brisbane and surrounding areas are preparing for the arrival of Tropical Cyclone Alfred, the first cyclone in 51 years to threaten the region. Low-lying areas are being protected with sandbags as the storm, with winds of up to 130 kph (81 mph), approaches the coast between Brisbane and the Gold Coast. Authorities have warned of potential flooding, with up to 20,000 homes in Brisbane at risk, and a cyclone refuge center has been established. Boats are being restricted, and evacuations are underway, particularly from South Stradbroke Island. The event is rare, as cyclones are uncommon in southeast Queensland and northern New South Wales.
