Why is Severe Tropical Cyclone Alfred, more than 900km away from the mainland, already having an impact on the Queensland coast? The cyclone system is generating an easterly swell far out at sea. This swell is large and powerful enough to bring hazardous surf conditions to parts of the central and south-east Queensland coast. A Hazardous Surf Warning is current for the Capricornia Coast and the K'gari Coast. Large waves may combine with high tides to cause coastal erosion and minor inundation ab

WATCH: our new 'Understanding tropical cyclone categories' video. A tropical cyclone’s effects vary depending on its intensity, so it’s important to understand the hazards involved and the potential damage a tropical cyclone can cause. More info: http://www.bom.gov.au/cyclone/about/ | Bureau of Meteorology