Significant damage and power outages are possible in the densely populated region of Queensland, where tropical cyclones impacts are not uncommon but direct landfalls are.

Governments are rushing to reopen schools and public transport, despite continued flooding in many areas, road closures, fallen live power lines and damaged homes.

Tropical Cyclone Alfred is nearing Australia's east coast. It could affect Queensland and New South Wales with strong winds, heavy rain, and flooding. The cyclone may make landfall between the Gold Coast and the Wide Bay region by late Friday or early Saturday.