Catholic schools in south-east Queensland and northern New South Wales have closed as the states prepare for Tropical Cyclone Alfred, which is forecast to cross the coast on Friday, bringing destructive winds and the risk of life-threatening flooding. Source: ABC News.
The system is expected to make landfall between the Gold Coast and southern parts of the Wide Bay region as a category two cyclone.
If it does, it will be the first cyclone to cross Queensland’s southern coast in half a century.
Premier David Crisafulli announced 660 state schools would also be closed and public transport would cease to operate today and tomorrow Friday in the cyclone zone.
A statement on the Brisbane Catholic Education website yesterday confirmed the Catholic school closures.
“With Cyclone Alfred impacting South East Queensland this week, our thoughts and prayers are with those who may be impacted by this weather event,” the statement read.
“Following advice from the Queensland Government, BCE schools in the following Local Government Areas will be closed tomorrow Thursday, 6 March and Friday 7, March.
“These are: Brisbane, Gold Coast, Ipswich, Lockyer Valley, Logan, Moreton Bay, Noosa, Redlands, Scenic Rim, and Sunshine Coast.
“BCE schools in Bundaberg, Fraser Coast, Gympie, North Burnett, and South Burnett will remain open at this stage, but please continue to check your emails for direct communication from your school and also the Queensland Government’s School Closure website for the most up to date information.
“It is important to remember during this time to place your safety first when considering your travel and take every precaution when commuting.”
Meanwhile, more than two dozen Catholic schools, as well as government and indepned schools in northern New South Wales have also closed due to the cyclone.
NSW Education Minister Prue Car said: “As our communities prioritise their safety and prepare for the arrival of Cyclone Alfred, we are ensuring teachers, students and school staff are not unnecessary placed in harm’s way by attending school.
“Keeping our students and families safe must always be our top priority.”
FULL STORY
Cyclone Alfred tracker map: When it will hit south-east Queensland (ABC News)
School closures announced (Brisbane Catholic Education)
Precautionary school closures in Northern NSW as Tropical Cyclone Alfred approaches (New South Wales Government)
