Stay Safe, Stay Sane: How to Ride Out Tropical Cyclone Alfred
Ride it out
By Team Style | 5th March 2025Tropical Cyclone Alfred is on the move, bringing heavy rain, wild winds, and plenty of chaos. If you’re in Brisbane, Queensland’s southeast, or northern NSW, now’s the time to get ready and get ahead of it. Stay informed, stay prepared, and most importantly, stay sane.
Remain calm (seriously, breathe) The number one rule? Don’t panic. Panic buying and unnecessary travel is not the vibe. Nor is doomscrolling TikTok. Keep up to date via official channels such as BOM, SES, or QLD GOV, and trust the authorities over something you saw on social media.
Get prepped like a pro If you haven’t already, do a quick check to make sure you’ve got the basics: water, snacks, a torch, and your devices are charged. If you’re in a flood-prone area, sandbags can help, so check with your council for availability. Oh, and a portable power bank will be a lifesaver if there’s a power outage to avoid scrambling later.
Keep your pets comfy and calm Bring your furry friends inside, make sure they’ve got food, water, and any medications they need. Be sure to give them extra love, as storms can be unsettling for them. If you’re in an evacuation zone, it’s worth checking ahead to see which shelters accommodate pets. A quiet, enclosed space will help them feel safe until the weather passes.
Power outage? Set the mood If the lights go out, lean into it. Candles, lanterns, and a playlist will keep the mood at least somewhat enjoyable. No wifi? A good book, a board game, or a hang with your housemates might just be a forgotten pleasure. If you’re stuck inside with kids, now is a good time to bring out the art supplies, puzzles, or even a good ol’ fashioned game of charades.
Hydration is key Water is your best friend during a storm, so make sure you’ve got enough to keep you going. If you haven’t already, fill up some bottles or containers, it’s always better to have extra on hand. A little stash of water for cleaning and hygiene can also come in handy. And if you’re settled in for the night, well, a glass of wine mightn’t hurt either.
The ultimate cyclone soundtrack Create a relaxed vibe with a chill playlist: think Sade, Fleetwood Mac, or anything that keeps things mellow. If you’re more into podcasts, line up a few easy listens to help pass the time. Download them ahead of time, just in case the internet decides to take a break too.
Support local after the storm Once Alfred moves on, local businesses may need a little extra support. When it’s safe to do so, consider stopping by your favourite café or restaurant when they reopen. Simply showing up and supporting in any way you can helps keep the community strong.
Look out for your neighbours A little kindness goes a long way. If you have elderly or vulnerable neighbours, a quick check-in can make all the difference. A text, call or a knock on the door is an easy way to offer support.
Who to call if neededIt’s helpful to have key contacts written down in case your phone battery runs low. The SES (State Emergency Service) is available on 132 500 for storm-related assistance, and for life-threatening emergencies, call 000. If evacuations are advised, stay updated with local authorities and follow their guidance to keep safe.
Stay connected and look out for each other Check in on your loved ones and keep an eye on reliable updates. A quick message or call can go a long way. Stay safe and stay sane, Stylers!
