Cyclone Looms as Aussie Staple Disappears From Shop Shelves
Panic buying has struck supermarkets across South East Queensland amid forecasts of Tropical Cyclone Alfred crossing the east coast, leaving shelves bare of essential items like bottled water, eggs, milk, and bread. Supermarkets are struggling to keep up with demand for these staples, leading some customers to resort to panic buying in preparation for possible supply outages ahead of the category 1 system intensifying off the coast. As the cyclone approaches, residents are being urged to prepare for intense rainfall and damaging winds.
- The sudden surge in panic buying may be a response to concerns about long-term supply chain vulnerabilities, particularly in regions prone to natural disasters.
- What steps should governments take to mitigate the impact of such events on vulnerable populations, who may rely heavily on these basic necessities during times of crisis?