Ex-Cyclone Alfred triggers severe flooding, power outages in Queensland, NSW

Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred has unleashed heavy rainfall across New South Wales and Queensland, leading to significant flooding and power outages. Major flood warnings are in effect for several river systems, including the Clarence, Richmond, and Bremer Rivers, as rainfall totals reach up to 400mm in some areas. Emergency services have responded to over 900 incidents in the past 24 hours, including numerous rescues from floodwaters. Approximately 240,000 homes and businesses remain without power as repair crews work to restore electricity. Evacuations have been ordered for residents near the Clarence River due to rising water levels, while Brisbane and the Gold Coast are under shelter-in-place warnings due to ongoing severe weather. Authorities emphasize the need for residents to stay away from floodwaters and heed emergency alerts as conditions may worsen.