Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred has weakened to a tropical low, but authorities are warning residents that heavy rainfall could still lead to flash-flooding.
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The centre of ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred made landfall around 8:00 p.m. Saturday, March 8, over Bribie Island, then moved onto the mainland around 9:00 p.m. Strong winds and intense downpours caused minor damage in Bribie Island, where fallen branches were reported. However, locals expressed relief that the storm was not as severe as initially forecast.
The cyclone was originally expected to cross near Bribie Island as a category 2 storm but weakened before making landfall. Despite this, the risk of severe weather remains, with authorities urging caution.
Flood Warnings and Safety Alerts
Mayor of the City of Moreton Bay, Peter Flannery, is reminding residents to stay alert as flooding remains a real danger in low-lying areas and frequently flooded roads.
“Council is preparing to mobilise crews to start conducting damage assessments and clean-up work to ensure public safety. We will also be checking all council facilities so they can be declared safe and ready to reopen,” Mr Flannery announced.
While the worst of the storm has passed, he stressed that emergency services remain on high alert, with nine SES calls received in the Moreton Bay region this weekend and more expected in the coming days.
Power and Recovery Efforts Continue
In Woorim, some residents lined up for coffee after power outages were reported in Bongaree. Despite worsening conditions, Energex crews have been working around the clock to restore power.
Since last night’s update (March 9), an additional 31,000 customers have had their electricity reinstated, bringing the total number of restored customers to an incredible 132,000 since Sunday morning’s peak. As of Monday morning, March 10, approximately 215,000 homes and businesses remain without power.
Hazards and Precautions
Authorities continue to urge caution, particularly with the risk of flash-flooding. Fast-flowing water is unpredictable and can be life-threatening. It can sweep people off their feet or carry vehicles away, making rescue efforts extremely dangerous.
Hidden dangers such as drains, debris, chemicals, and sewage pose serious health risks. Floodwaters often contain hazardous materials that can cause infections, injuries, or other medical emergencies.
Driving through floodwaters can worsen conditions for affected homes and businesses due to the displacement of water. Vehicles create waves that can push water into buildings, exacerbating flood damage and putting more properties at risk.
Residents are urged to never walk, ride, or drive through floodwaters. If it’s flooded, forget it!
Residents are encouraged to stay updated on road closures via the Disaster Dashboard: disaster.moretonbay.qld.gov.au.
Waste Collection and Recovery
The City of Moreton Bay has issued an update regarding missed bin collections:
- General waste bins missed last Thursday or Friday should be left out for catch-up collections over the next few days.
- Only general waste bins will be collected at this time.
- GO and recycling bins will be collected on the next scheduled day, weather permitting.
- Residents can drop off any waste at council waste facilities free of charge if it is safe to do so.
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Returning to Normal but Staying Vigilant
While most businesses have resumed normal operating hours, authorities stress that residents should remain cautious. With the potential for further heavy rainfall, the community is urged to stay informed and prepared for any sudden changes in weather conditions.
Featured image: Bribie Island as of 10 March 2025 (Photo credit: Bribie Island SLSC – Surfline.com)
Published 10-March-2025
