We know many of you have recently moved to Queensland, and if this is your first time hearing about a cyclone warning, it might feel a bit unsettling. We get it—you’ve just settled in, and now there’s talk of tropical storms, wind, and rain.
First things first—take a deep breath. Queenslanders are used to this, and we’re well-prepared for these types of weather events. Most of the time, systems weaken before hitting land or change course entirely. But, on the off chance that we do get some wild weather later this week, we wanted to pull together some simple, helpful info for you—because it’s always better to be prepared than caught off guard.
So, here’s what you actually need to know—without the panic.
What’s the Latest on Cyclone Alfred?
- Right now, Cyclone Alfred is sitting off the coast but could turn back toward Queensland later this week.
- Even if it doesn’t make direct landfall, strong winds, heavy rain, and potential flooding are possible.
- Some beaches (especially on the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast) already have hazardous surf, so check local alerts before heading out.
- Schools and transport services may be impacted later in the week, but no closures have been confirmed yet.
Long story short? It’s worth getting ready, but no need to stress.
How to Prepare Without Overthinking It
You don’t need to go overboard, but a little preparation goes a long way. Taking a few simple steps now means you’ll be ready for whatever happens—without the stress.
Stay Updated (Without Doom-Scrolling)
The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) provides the most reliable cyclone updates. To get alerts sent straight to your phone, register for Brisbane Severe Weather Alerts or check the Gold Coast Disaster Dashboard or Sunshine Coast Disaster Dashboard for local updates.
đź“» If the power goes out, tune in to ABC Radio (90.3 FM & 95.3 FM) for emergency updates.
Simple Prep for Your Home
A few small tasks can help protect your home if the weather turns rough:
- Secure loose outdoor items – Bring in furniture, bins, plant pots, and toys to prevent them from becoming airborne.
- Trim overhanging branches – Especially if they’re near windows or power lines.
- Clear gutters and drains – Reduces the risk of water damage during heavy rain.
- Charge your phone and power banks – Stay connected in case of power outages.
- If you have a trampoline, turn it upside down or weigh it down with sandbags to stop it from becoming a flying hazard.
- Stack loose timber and garden items against a fence or secure them with rope to prevent them from shifting in strong winds.
Live in a Flood-Prone Area? Grab Some Sandbags
If your home is in a low-lying or flood-prone area, consider picking up sandbags as a precaution.
đź“Ť Collection points (open 24/7):
- Zillmere – Jennings Street
- Caloundra Depot – Ulm Street South
- Lighthouse Rugby Club – 81 Arthur Street, Caloundra
Being prepared doesn’t mean panicking—it just means you’ll have peace of mind no matter what happens. đź’™
What to Have on Hand (No Panic Buying Necessary!)
Think of this as a “just in case” stash rather than an emergency survival kit.
- Extra food & water – Enough for a couple of days.
- Torch & spare batteries – Power outages are possible.
- Battery-powered radio – Stay updated if mobile networks go down.
- First aid kit & medications – Good to have ready.
- Important documents in a waterproof bag – Keep key contacts and insurance info safe.
- Gas bottle for a BBQ – If the power goes out, you can still cook.
If you have pets, make sure they have food and a safe spot indoors.
What to Expect if the Weather Gets Rough
If the cyclone brings heavy rain and strong winds, here’s what to keep in mind:
- If the winds suddenly stop, stay indoors. This could be the eye of the storm, meaning strong winds will return.
- Power may go out. Keep fridge doors closed as much as possible to preserve food.
- If roads flood, don’t drive through them. Even shallow-looking water can be dangerous.
- Brisbane homes aren’t cyclone-rated. Strong winds can cause damage, so stay inside.
Helping Kids Feel Calm & Safe
If you have kids, they might feel uneasy hearing about the cyclone. You can help by keeping things calm and familiar:
- Listen to their concerns – Answer questions honestly but reassuringly.
- Limit news & social media – Too much information can feel overwhelming.
- Reassure them – “Cyclones are just big storms we can plan for.”
- Stick to routines – Familiar activities help kids feel secure.
Some schools may close if the weather worsens, but for now, everything is running as normal.
đź”— For more advice, check this guide: Helping Children Cope with Cyclones
Who to Call if You Need Help
- Life-threatening emergencies: 000
- Flood & storm assistance (SES): 132 500
- Brisbane City Council (fallen trees, blocked drains, etc.): 3403 8888
- Need to evacuate? Local council websites will have updates.
Final Thoughts: Fingers Crossed, but Let’s Be Ready
Hopefully, this all turns out to be nothing more than a bit of rain. But if it does pick up, you’ll be glad you took a few simple steps now.
The key takeaway? Stay informed, stay calm, and have a plan—just in case.
Stay safe, and let’s hope Cyclone Alfred just gives us a bit of rain! đź’™
At Claymore Thistle, we know that moving to a new country comes with its challenges—including navigating Queensland’s wild weather! If you’re thinking about relocating and need expert guidance, we’re here to help. Set up a no-obligation chat with us here.
