Tropical cyclone Alfred is heading towards Australia and millions of people are bracing for a direct hit. The storm has already forced evacuations in many areas and the closing of several airports, ports, and schools along Australia’s Southeast Coast. Several airlines also cancelled all flights to holiday hotspots. Scroll on to know more about this.
Flights Cancelled, Airports Shut & Major Travel Disruption In Australia
Cyclone Alfred is yet to make landfall in Australia, but it has already impacted travel in the country. According to the Hindustan Times, several Australian airports on the Southeast Coast have closed their terminals after strong winds hit the region. As a Category 2 cyclone continues to move towards the country, many airlines like Qantas, Jetstar, and Virgin Australia have cancelled flights to major holiday spots.
As per the latest update, around 22 flights, which were scheduled to arrive or depart from Ballina Byron Gateway Airport, were cancelled by major airlines on Wednesday and Thursday. Air carrier Qantas also cancelled flights to and from Lord Howe Island on Wednesday. The Gold Coast Airport in the country was also closed till 4 PM (local time) on Wednesday. Its reopening time is yet to be announced.
Also Read: Category 2 Cyclone Alfred To Hit Australia’s Gold Coast; Airlines Cancel Flights
All About Tropical Cyclone Alfred
Tropical Cyclone Alfred is a category 2 cyclone that is approaching east of Brisbane. As per the last update, the cyclone was 425 kilometres from the region on Wednesday and was producing sustained winds of 95 kilometres an hour. As per the local meteorological department’s forecast, the cyclone will maintain its intensity and cross the Southeast Coast early Friday. It’s expected to make landfall somewhere between tourism hubs–Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast, and most likely near Brisbane.
The area covered by Cyclone Alfred warning zone stretches approximately 450-500 km. This covers Double Island Point in Queensland to Ballina in New South Wales. The cyclone is expected to fall between Maroochydore and Coolangatta.
If you’re planning to travel to Australia or are already there, please be safe! Stay updated on all the latest news and warnings issued by local authorities.
Cover Image Courtesy: X/@roaming_fox & Canva (representative image)
For more such snackable content, interesting discoveries and the latest updates on food, travel and experiences in your city, download the Curly Tales App. Download HERE.