Cyclone ‘Alfred’ batters East Australia, leaving thousands without power
Over 300,000 households have been left without electricity, and several areas remain under flood threat.
KATHMANDU: Cyclone ‘Alfred’ has wreaked havoc along Australia’s eastern coast, bringing heavy rainfall and strong winds that have severely disrupted daily life.
Over 300,000 households have been left without electricity, and several areas remain under flood threat.
Authorities have confirmed the discovery of a 61-year-old man’s body in floodwaters.
Preliminary reports suggest he was swept away in his car.
Additionally, 13 rescue personnel were injured when their truck met with an accident during relief efforts.
The intense rainfall has submerged low-lying areas, uprooted trees, and damaged power lines, causing widespread transport disruptions.
Although the storm has weakened, meteorologists warn that risks persist, with around four million residents in Queensland and northern New South Wales still vulnerable.
The power crisis has worsened the situation.
Energy provider Energex reported that 287,000 households in northeast Queensland are without electricity, while Essential Energy confirmed outages for 42,000 homes in New South Wales.
Tens of thousands of people have been evacuated to safety, and authorities have urged residents to stay indoors unless absolutely necessary.
Emergency teams are actively engaged in rescue and recovery operations.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has warned that the Gold Coast region could face further challenges, with bad weather expected to persist for several days.
Residents have been advised to remain vigilant.
