Yetta Gurtner, the coordinator of James Cook University’s Centre for Disaster Studies, provides crucial insights as Cyclone Alfred approaches South East Queensland.

Currently classified as a Category 2 storm, Cyclone Alfred is expected to cause minor house damage and significant harm to vegetation and infrastructure, though it could escalate to a Category 3 with stronger winds before making landfall.

Residents in Brisbane should prepare for wind gusts exceeding 130 km/h, which may create intense and frightening conditions, particularly as the city is less accustomed to cyclones compared to northern regions like Townsville.

The cyclone's eye is projected to cross over heavily populated areas in Greater Brisbane, raising significant safety concerns for residents during the transition between wind directions.

During the storm, residents may hear loud noises resembling a train tunnel, and there is a risk of tree branches impacting roofs and windows breaking due to debris.

Wind-driven water ingress is a concern, prompting the use of plastic sheeting to seal windows and doors to minimize potential water damage.

Brisbane's older housing stock may be more vulnerable to damage compared to structures built to cyclone codes in northern regions like Townsville and Cairns.

Residents are encouraged to inspect their homes for structural integrity, clean gutters, and address any damage before the cyclone arrives, with evacuation recommended if serious concerns arise.

Gurtner advises that during the storm, individuals should stay indoors in the safest part of the house, such as a bathroom or hallway, and plug toilets and drains to prevent sewage backflow.

To help mitigate noise and fear for children during the cyclone's peak intensity, Gurtner recommends using headphones.

Gurtner dispels a myth circulating on social media about opening leeward doors and windows, emphasizing that it is safer to remain indoors until authorities declare it safe to exit.

Gurtner cautions against going outside during the calm period of the storm, as winds may suddenly return from a different direction with potentially greater intensity.