By Gill Bikram Singh 
A powerful storm system battering Australia’s eastern coast has left one person dead and 36 military personnel injured, as destructive winds and heavy rainfall continue to cause widespread damage.
Although Cyclone Alfred was downgraded to a tropical low on Saturday, it remains a serious threat, with officials warning residents to stay indoors as it moves toward Queensland’s capital, Brisbane.
Floods and Deadly Consequences
Emergency responders discovered a body in floodwaters while searching for a 61-year-old man who disappeared on Friday after his car was swept away in Dorrigo, New South Wales. Witnesses saw him escape the vehicle and cling to a tree, but he was lost before rescuers could reach him.
In Lismore, a military convoy responding to the crisis was involved in a major accident. A truck overturned on a narrow road, causing a second vehicle to crash into it, leaving 36 soldiers injured—some seriously.
“Our ADF [Australian Defence Force] heroes were on their way to help Australians in need,” Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said, expressing concern for the injured personnel.
Widespread Destruction and Power Outages
The storm has left over 300,000 homes and businesses without electricity. Emergency crews are scrambling to restore power as fallen trees, downed power lines, and flooded roads create hazardous conditions.
Brisbane residents initially braced for the cyclone’s full impact but awoke Saturday to news that the storm had weakened. However, other parts of Queensland and New South Wales remain under high alert.
State officials continue to warn that the crisis is far from over. “This emergency is not over,” said New South Wales Premier Chris Minns, urging the public to remain cautious despite the storm’s downgraded status.
Severe Weather Disrupts Daily Life
Authorities have closed nearly 1,000 schools, halted public transport, and shut down airports, with flights unlikely to resume before Sunday. Elective surgeries have also been canceled as hospitals prepare for storm-related emergencies.
Coastal areas, including the Gold Coast, have seen significant damage, with fallen trees, submerged boats, and eroded beaches. The cleanup operation remains on hold as dangerous weather persists.
While some residents have begun venturing out to assess the destruction, many are staying indoors as authorities continue to monitor flooding and storm surges.