During the recent ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred, the upscale Meriton apartments on the Gold Coast faced severe flooding, leaving residents distressed over waterlogged carpets and leaky window sills. A local DJ, known as WILLO, shared a TikTok video showcasing the water-soaked conditions on the 14th floor of the Meriton Southport building. In the video, makeshift solutions like zip ties holding windows closed were evident, with WILLO expressing frustration at the prolonged neglect by the building’s management in addressing leaks and window seal issues for over four years.

The incident shed light on the challenges faced by residents in high-rise luxury complexes like the Meriton buildings, developed by prominent figure Harry Triguboff AO. Another resident from the Meriton Surfers Paradise complex also voiced concerns about significant water leakage during the cyclone, questioning the integrity of a building only two years old. The footage captured the extent of water infiltration through various cracks, even with closed windows, illustrating the severity of the situation.

Amid the aftermath of ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred, which transitioned into a tropical low, the Gold Coast experienced disruptions in various sectors, including tourism and infrastructure. The storm’s impact extended to popular spots like Putt Putt Mermaid Beach, where the iconic giant yellow golf ball marker was toppled. The region grappled with power outages affecting around 300,000 properties, while the closure of Gold Coast Airport added to the challenges faced by locals and travelers.

As the weather system continued to affect southeast Queensland and northern NSW, authorities worked to mitigate the consequences of the cyclone. While winds were expected to decrease as the system moved inland, heavy rainfall persisted in the region, exacerbating existing concerns. Gold Coast Airport’s closure remained a significant issue, with plans to resume operations contingent on weather conditions and safety assessments conducted by airport personnel.

The incident at the Meriton apartments highlighted the vulnerability of high-rise buildings to extreme weather events and the importance of proactive maintenance to mitigate risks. The community’s response to the flooding incident underscored the need for effective communication and swift action by property managers to address structural vulnerabilities. The broader implications of such incidents on residents, infrastructure, and local businesses emphasized the significance of disaster preparedness and resilience in coastal regions prone to cyclonic activity.