Residents in Western Australia’s Pilbara region are bracing themselves for the impact of Tropical Cyclone Zelia, a category five system that’s expected to make landfall in the coming hours.
The cyclone is currently located 115 kilometers north-west of Port Hedland and 220 kilometers north-east of Karratha, with wind gusts of up to 320 kilometers per hour predicted near its center.
Emergency Warning Issued for Pilbara Region
An emergency warning has been issued for areas between Pardoo Roadhouse and Whim Creek, and inland west of Marble Bar.
Residents in these areas have been told it’s too late to leave their properties, and should seek shelter immediately.
A watch and act alert is also in place for areas west of Whim Creek to Dampier, including the city of Karratha, and inland to Tom Price.
Severe Weather Expected
The Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) has warned that Tropical Cyclone Zelia will bring severe weather, including heavy rain and strong winds.
“It’s shaping up to be a wild couple of days in terms of weather,” said DFES incident controller Will Blackshaw.
“It’s expected to maintain that intensity and it’s going to be a really significant impact wherever it makes landfall.”
Heavy Rain and Flooding Predicted
Parts of the Pilbara region could receive up to 500 millimeters of rain in the coming days, with heavy rain already falling in coastal areas.
A watch and act warning for flooding has been issued for people in Marble Bar and Nullagine in the De Grey River catchment.
“We’re trying to stay safe because we can’t head back to Port Hedland because the road is closed,” said Port Hedland resident Santiago Masciotta, who has taken shelter at an evacuation center in Karratha.
Residents Make Final Preparations
Locals in Karratha and Port Hedland have been stocking up on supplies, cleaning up, and making their final preparations ahead of the cyclone.
“We’re hitting it with plenty of sandbags, keeping all of our shade sails taken down,” said Karratha resident Harper Rolfe. “Just making sure everything outside is inside so nothing can catch wind and fly away.”
Mining and Shipping Operations Ceased
Mining and shipping operations around Port Hedland have been ceased until the cyclone passes.
BHP has confirmed that its operations in Port Hedland have been paused, and staff have been instructed to shelter at home or on camp until warnings are downgraded.
Rio Tinto has also cleared its ports at Cape Lambert and Dampier, and no ships or trains will go in or out until the storm has passed.
Stay Safe and Stay Informed
Residents in the affected areas are urged to stay safe and stay informed about the latest developments.
Follow the instructions of local authorities, and keep an eye on the weather forecast for updates on Tropical Cyclone Zelia’s movement and impact.
This is a developing story, and we’ll bring you updates as more information becomes available.