Queenslanders are no strangers to extreme weather. It wouldn’t be summer without some kind of memorable weather event. But 2025’s Tropical Cyclone Alfred is different, and it’s shaping up to be one of the most significant systems in recent years.
Currently classified as a Category 2 system (as of the 4th March 2025), Alfred is sitting off the Queensland coast, with meteorologists closely monitoring its movements. Forecasters predict it could track westward, bringing heavy rainfall, gale-force winds, and potential flooding across coastal regions across the state.
North and Far North Queenslanders are used to these kinds of systems. They have a well-documented history of cyclones, with multiple systems forming each season and at least one or two making landfall almost every year. As such, they have well-established cyclone preparation strategies and infrastructure designed for extreme weather.
The further south you go, the less frequent they become. The last systems that made it to Central Queensland were Severe Tropical Cyclone Debbie in 2017 and Severe Tropical Cyclone Marcia two years before.
For Southeast Queensland, the last significant event—comparable to Alfred’s potential—was in 1974 when Severe Tropical Cyclone Zoe was the precursor to Brisbane’s infamous floods.
Although Alfred could make landfall anywhere between Bundaberg and northern New South Wales, many Queenslanders, particularly those in the south, may not be as familiar with cyclone ratings and the impact of different categories.
Given this history, it’s important to understand how cyclones are classified and what each category means for building resilience and safety.
For our friends outside of Australia, tropical cyclones are what you might call hurricanes or typhoons.
How are cyclones rated?
In Australia, tropical cyclones are classified using the Australian Tropical Cyclone Intensity Scale, which ranks them from Category 1 to 5 based on maximum sustained wind speeds.
Here’s what each category means:
Category 1:
- Wind speeds: 63–88 km/h (Gale-force winds)
- Minimal damage, but potential for strong winds and heavy rainfall.
Category 2:
- Wind speeds: 89–117 km/h (Strong winds)
- Moderate damage, risk of power outages, and damage to trees and signs.
Category 3 (Severe Cyclone):
- Wind speeds: 118–159 km/h (Destructive winds)
- Roof and structural damage to homes, trees uprooted, power outages.
Category 4 (Severe Cyclone):
- Wind speeds: 160–199 km/h (Very destructive winds)
- Significant structural damage, widespread power loss, high storm surge.
Category 5 (Severe Cyclone):
- Wind speeds: 200 km/h or more (Extremely destructive winds)
- Catastrophic damage, widespread destruction, severe storm surge.
The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) uses this system to assess and communicate risks, helping residents and emergency responders prepare for incoming storms.
Cyclone-resistant construction: The Australian standard
Australia has strict building standards for cyclone-prone areas to keep structures standing even in extreme conditions. The AS/NZS 1170.2:2021 – Structural Design Actions, Part 2: Wind Actions standard outlines wind-resistant construction requirements, varying by location.
These strict guidelines ensure homes and businesses can withstand extreme wind conditions, reducing structural failures and increasing safety.
Maximum wind speeds for building design
- Cyclonic regions (Region C & D): Must withstand winds up to 316 km/h (Category 5 equivalent).
- Non-cyclonic regions (Region A & B): Typically designed for up to 160 km/h, depending on local conditions.
Wind regions in Australia
- Region A (low wind area): Southern and inland areas (e.g., Melbourne, Adelaide).
- Region B (intermediate wind area): Coastal regions (e.g., Brisbane, Sydney, Perth).
- Region C (cyclonic area – severe winds): Northern coastal areas (e.g., Townsville, Broome).
- Region D (cyclonic area –extreme winds): Northern WA & NT (e.g., Darwin, Port Hedland).
Key building features for cyclone-prone areas
For regions C and D, those figures mean buildings need to feature:
- Stronger roofing and bracing to prevent uplift from extreme winds.
- Impact-resistant materials to reduce damage from flying debris.
- Cyclone-proof shutters for windows in high-risk zones.
- Storm surge protection for buildings near coastal areas.
Cyclone preparedness: What can you do?
Wherever you live along Queensland’s east coast, following cyclone precautions can keep you, your home, business and loved ones safe.
While northern Queenslanders are used to preparing for direct wind impacts, residents further south should never underestimate the flooding, winds and extreme rainfall that tropical cyclones can bring.
Here’s how to stay prepared:
- Regular building inspections: Ensure your roof, windows, and structural bracing meet cyclone standards, especially if you’re in Region C or D.
- Check your insurance: Some policies exclude flood damage, so review your coverage before storm season.
- Have an emergency plan: This includes evacuation routes, supplies (food, water, medication), and securing outdoor items before storms hit.
- Stay updated: Monitor BoM warnings and follow advice from emergency services.
If damage does occur
Morse Building Consultancy specialises in damage assessment, forensic reporting, and compliance verification following major weather events. Our team has been involved in assessments following major cyclones like Jasper and Kirrily.
Contact us for dependable, streamlined, impartial assessments to get you through the aftermath of extreme weather events.
Stay safe, stay informed, and be prepared.