A large swathe of Australia’s east coast is preparing for strong winds and life-threatening flooding as a tropical cyclone is forecast to make landfall around the nation’s third-largest city.

Category 1 cyclone intensifying off Queensland’s coast expected to be one of region’s most destructive in decades

Australia’s east coast is closely watching Tropical Cyclone Alfred, which has been churning and strengthening over the Coral Sea. Although the storm is expected to stay offshore for now, it’s still set to bring gusty winds, rising swells and hazardous surf conditions to Queensland’s heavily populated coastline in the coming days.

Australia’s east coast is bracing for tidal surges, intense rainfall, strong winds and flooding as a cyclone is expected to veer toward the country’s third-biggest city.

Residents are remaining alert with Tropical Cyclone Alfred currently tracking above the Coral Sea around 450 kilometres north-east of Brisbane.

A rare and potentially dangerous weather event is unfolding in southeast Queensland, with Cyclone Alfred predicted to make landfall near Brisbane later this week. If the system reaches the coast as expected,