Tropical Cyclone Alfred is intensifying as it moves toward southeastern Queensland and northeastern New South Wales, prompting severe weather warnings and travel advisories. Authorities are urging residents and travellers to prepare for significant impacts as the system strengthens.
Currently classified as a category two system, Cyclone Alfred is expected to make landfall between the Sunshine Coast and the Gold Coast on Friday morning. The cyclone is forecast to bring widespread severe weather, affecting both coastal and inland regions. Residents and travellers in the affected areas should prepare for:
- Heavy rainfall and flooding – Forecasts indicate rainfall totals between 200mm and 400mm, with some areas potentially receiving up to 700mm, increasing the risk of flash flooding.
- Damaging winds – Wind gusts are expected to reach up to 120 km/h, posing risks of fallen trees, power outages, and structural damage.
- Coastal hazards – Powerful surf with waves up to 10 metres high is expected, raising concerns about beach erosion and dangerous marine conditions.
Travel advisories and precautions
Authorities have issued several warnings for those in the cyclone’s path:
- Evacuations and shelter – Emergency evacuation centres have been established in vulnerable areas, and some schools have been closed in preparation for the storm.
- Flight disruptions – Airports across southeast Queensland and northern NSW are monitoring conditions, with potential delays and cancellations expected. Travellers should check with airlines for updates. Several major Australian airlines have announced a flexible booking policy for travellers planning to fly on their service. All of them recommend travellers continue to check flight details for updates.
- Public transport impacts – Ferry services and some public transport routes have been suspended in affected areas as a precaution.
Virgin Australia said in a statement, “We understand people may no longer wish to fly to or from areas which may be impacted by Tropical Cyclone Alfred, so we are making it easier for guests to change their travel plans.”
Guests travelling on Virgin Australia services to or from Ballina, Brisbane, Bundaberg, Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast airports from Tuesday, 4 March to Saturday, 8 March 2025 inclusive can choose to move their flight to a new date within 14 days from the original departure date, subject to availability. The alternative option is to cancel and request a travel credit by contacting their Guest Contact Centre or a travel agent. Both options are free of charge, but the original ticket must be issued on or before 3 March.
As for Qantas, travellers who have booked flights to or from Ballina, Brisbane, Bundaberg, Hervey Bay, Gold Coast and Maroochydore on or prior to 3 March 2025, for travel between 4 and 9 March 2025, are eligible for Qantas’ flexible policy. The airline is offering a travel credit or date change, up to 14 days from the original date of travel, subject to availability, for customers who want to change their booking or no longer wish to travel. Booking changes can be made through the Qantas website, by calling the airline or contacting your travel agent.
“If your flight is impacted, we’ll notify you by SMS using the number provided in your booking. You can also check your flight details through the Qantas App or via Manage Booking online,” the airline said in a statement.
People booked to fly out of Sunshine Coast (Maroochydore), Hervey Bay, Brisbane, Gold Coast (Coolangatta), and Ballina Byron Bay airports with Jetstar, between March 4 and March 6, are eligible for Jetstar’s offer. It includes a free date change up to seven days from the original travel date or a voucher to the value of untravelled flights.
The airline said in a statement that it was “closely monitoring the progression” of the severe weather event and would contact customers directly if their flight is disrupted.
Government and emergency response
State and federal authorities are mobilising emergency services and resources to assist affected communities. Additional personnel and equipment are being deployed to regions expected to bear the brunt of the cyclone. Residents and travellers are urged to follow official instructions and avoid unnecessary travel.
Safety recommendations
To stay safe during the cyclone:
- Stay informed – Monitor weather updates from the Bureau of Meteorology and local authorities for the latest advisories.
- Prepare emergency kits – Stock up on water, non-perishable food, medications, and important documents in case of power outages or evacuation orders.
- Secure property – Ensure outdoor items are secured and properties are reinforced to withstand strong winds and heavy rain.
With Cyclone Alfred set to make landfall, residents and travellers in the region are advised to take precautions and stay updated on emergency alerts.
