Australian emergency services are grappling with the aftermath of Cyclone Alfred, as authorities report one body has been recovered from floodwaters and injuries to military personnel are confirmed following a vehicle collision. The tropical storm, which has since been downgraded, made landfall near Brisbane, triggering severe weather across the eastern coast.
Emergency responders found the body during the search for a 61-year-old man, last seen escaping his vehicle caught in rising water in Dorrigo, New South Wales. Despite efforts to reach him as he climbed to safety on a tree branch, he was swept away before rescuers could intervene.
In a separate incident, 13 members of the Australian Defence Force were injured when two military vehicles collided in Lismore while en route to assist with response operations. Federal Defence Personnel Minister Matt Keogh confirmed the details of the crash, stressing the commitment of these personnel to aid communities affected by the cyclone.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese commended the injured troops, referring to them as "heroes" and underscoring the importance of vigilance among residents as recovery efforts ramp up. With over 300,000 homes without power, officials are urging the public to remain cautious, even as the storm has weakened.
As Cyclone Alfred has heavily impacted Queensland and northern New South Wales, regions bracing for the storm are seeing ongoing adverse weather conditions. Power outages have affected nearly 287,000 customers in southeast Queensland, while Essential Energy reported over 42,600 homes in New South Wales affected.
In Brisbane, residents faced a tense night with forecasts of heavy rain and wind. By morning, while the city had fared better than predicted, officials warned that the threat of flooding persists in other regions. Emergency services reported numerous felled trees and roadside debris, exacerbating travel disruptions.
New South Wales state premier Chris Minns cautioned the public against taking the cyclone's downgrade lightly, highlighting ongoing flooding risks. The storm's impact has already led to extensive school closures, public transport cancellations, and the suspension of elective surgeries.
People in vulnerable situations, including Brisbane's homeless community, have found shelter as safe havens are established amidst the chaos. Cleanup efforts are on hold due to hazardous weather conditions, with local authorities urging residents to prioritize safety while assessing damage from Cyclone Alfred's wrath.
