Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred has resulted in widespread disruptions across Queensland and New South Wales, leaving approximately 250,000 homes and businesses without power.

The storm, which has since weakened to a tropical low, initially made landfall near Bribie Island and is expected to bring significant rainfall over the next 48 hours, with predictions of up to 800 millimeters in some areas.

Premier David Crisafulli described the power outage as the largest the state has experienced in over a decade, surpassing disruptions caused by Cyclone Oswald in 2013.

While coastal areas in Queensland have avoided severe wind damage, authorities remain vigilant about potential flooding and flash floods.

Queensland Police Acting Commissioner Shane Chelepy warned that the heavy rain could lead to dangerous flash flooding across the region, posing significant risks to life and property.

Iconic beaches on the Gold Coast have suffered from coastal erosion, although there have been no reports of loss of life or missing persons in the state.

Efforts are underway by grocery retailers such as Coles and Woolworths to reopen stores affected by the storm.

However, many locations remain closed as staff assess damages and restore power.

Grocery store shelves have been heavily lean due to panic buying prior to the storm, leading to ongoing supply challenges.

In New South Wales, particularly in Lismore, flood warnings are in effect as river levels rise and threaten to inundate the city.

As of Saturday, local authorities issued 'watch and act' orders, anticipating major flooding that could reach critical levels.

The State Emergency Service (SES) has warned residents to evacuate low-lying areas due to the imminent risk of flooding, with units deployed in response to over 1,100 incidents due to storm conditions.

Authorities have mobilized resources, including the Australian Defence Force, which has commenced preparation for post-storm recovery operations by providing sandbags and personnel assistance.

Emergency shelters have been established across both states, accommodating hundreds of residents displaced by flooding and power outages.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has expressed concerns over a man reported missing in floodwaters in New South Wales and emphasized that despite the cyclone's downgrade, communities must remain vigilant as adverse weather conditions persist.

The Bureau of Meteorology continues to monitor the situation closely, advising that severe weather warnings remain in place across Queensland and New South Wales, highlighting the potential for damaging winds and intense rainfall ahead.