Cyclone Alfred targets millions in Australia, first in decades

The South Pacific is on high alert as Cyclone Alfred makes an unprecedented U-turn towards Brisbane, Australia's third-largest city.

Home to over 2.5 million residents, Brisbane faces the looming threat of severe weather as early as Thursday or Friday.

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The slow-moving system has made it difficult for meteorologists to accurately forecast a complex task. Despite this, the forecast remains clear that the system is expected to intensify as it approaches the coastline.

Alfred could become the first cyclone of its status, or higher, in 30 years to directly impact the region since Cyclone Nancy in 1990.

Residents are bracing for a barrage of severe weather conditions, including damaging wind gusts exceeding 120 km/h, 20-30 ft waves, and torrential rainfall.

The combination of this heavy rainfall and storm surge will create significant flooding risks, affecting both coastal and inland areas.

A state of emergency has been declared, and evacuation orders have been issued for vulnerable areas. A cyclone warning has also been issued for the entire coastal region, urging residents to take immediate precautions.

Authorities are urging residents to stay informed through reliable weather updates and official announcements, follow evacuation orders promptly, prepare emergency kits, and avoid travel in affected areas.