News of Cyclone Alfred making landfall has hit Brisbanites hard, with many flocking to stores and clearing out racks in preparation for what’s currently expected to be a category two cyclone—a storm of such power that Brisbane has not seen since the 1970s.
As we brace for potentially damaging strong winds, risks of flooding, and power outages, here are our top 10 suggestions for how best to prepare for this storm.
- Keep yourself informed: Monitor official weather updates from the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) and consult local authorities, like Brisbane City Council, for more updates and insights to keep you safe.
Link to BOM website: http://www.bom.gov.au/?ref=logo
Link to Brisbane City Council website emergency dashboard: https://www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/community-and-safety/community-safety/disasters-and-emergencies/emergency-dashboard - Prepare an Emergency Kit: Fill a kit with essentials: a 3-day supply of water, non-perishable food, first-aid supplies, a flashlight, a battery-powered radio, and extra batteries.
- Secure Your Home: Reinforce windows and doors with plywood or storm shutters. Secure outdoor furniture and items that could become projectiles. For apartment residents, ensuring your balcony is clear of loose items is crucial, as they can become dangerous projectiles in high winds. Please be aware that sandbag stations in the city are closing tonight, Thursday, March 6.
- Charge Devices: Fully charge phones, laptops, and power banks to help you stay connected in the case of a power outage.
- Evacuation Plan: Residents in high-density housing should be aware of their building’s emergency plan. Familiarize yourself with evacuation routes and shelter locations. If your home has been badly damaged from the cyclone, you can seek refuge at a temporary shelter opened by the Brisbane City Council at the RNA Showgrounds, 600 Gregory Terrace, Bowen Hills.
Refer to the Brisbane City Council website for more information on refuge shelters: https://www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/about-council/council-information-rates/news-publications/newsroom/use-extra-time-to-seek-shelter - Fuel Up: All public transport in South East Queensland is cancelled from Thursday, March 6, 2025, until further notice. Fill your vehicle’s gas tank and stay updated with road and bridge closures in the event of an emergency evacuation. You don’t want to be caught unprepared.
- Protect Documents and Emergency Contact List: Store important documents (insurance, ID, etc.) in waterproof bags or containers. Keep a list of emergency contacts readily available should you need to contact them.
- Pet Preparedness: Remember, the storm could be stressful for your furry friends. Prepare a pet emergency kit with food, water, and necessary medications.
- Stay Indoors, Avoid Travel: During the storm, stay indoors and away from windows. Do not travel unless absolutely necessary. Consider telehealth reviews if needed for a medical concern unless an emergency review is advised. Call 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84) and speak with a registered nurse about any health concerns during this storm.
- Community Support: Check on family, friends and neighbors and offer assistance where possible. Stay in contact, even to provide a sense of company and reassurance. We’ll have a better chance of getting through this storm unharmed together.
While the winds of fear might be strong, we hope Brisbane City will come out safe and sound. Take these steps to better prepare yourself, take the time to breathe, and keep in touch with your loved ones over the next few days. Good luck, Brisbane, and see you after the storm!
