Brisbane, Queensland – Australia is bracing for a tropical storm set to hit the eastern coast, causing tens of thousands of evacuations and leaving hundreds of thousands without power. The storm, initially named Cyclone Alfred, has been downgraded to a tropical low with winds expected to reach up to 85km/h, lower than originally predicted.

According to the Bureau of Meteorology, the storm is currently positioned off Bribie Island and slowly moving north towards a potential landfall between the island and Maroochydore. Authorities are urging residents to remain indoors, with fines in place for those who venture out to the beaches due to the threat of heavy rainfall and flooding.

Meteorologist Miriam Bradbury warned of the ongoing risk of severe weather, especially heavy rainfall, with expected totals exceeding 200mm over the next couple of days as the system moves inland. The slow progress of the ex-tropical cyclone has already resulted in flooding, heightening concerns of further flooding over the weekend.

The storm’s impact is vast, with approximately four million people across Queensland and northern New South Wales in its path. The unpredictability of the storm’s movement raises fears of flash and riverine flooding in low-lying areas. Residents like Stephen Valentine in Logan city have taken precautions, stocking up on supplies and fortifying their homes against potential damage.

As Australian communities prepare for Cyclone Alfred, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese emphasized the importance of resilience in facing tough times. The storm’s expected heavy rainfall, strong winds, and disruption to daily life, including school closures and transport suspensions, have forced residents to adapt to the challenging conditions.

Fears of structural damage and power outages loom as the storm approaches, prompting residents to take necessary precautions. While some residents brace for the impact, others like surfers at Kirra beach continue to embrace the wild weather, seizing the opportunity for extreme surfing conditions. Despite the excitement, authorities continue to stress the importance of safety and preparedness in the face of the looming storm.