Pilbara Prepares for Devastation
Cyclone Zelia is set to strike the Pilbara coast this evening, bringing extreme winds and heavy rainfall. The Bureau of Meteorology warns that the category five cyclone could reach wind speeds of up to 290 km/h as it makes landfall.
Senior meteorologist Jonathan How stated that Zelia’s core would likely cross the coast just east of Port Hedland between 3 pm and 4 pm. “Port Hedland is in the firing line,” he told ABC Radio.
Emergency Warnings Issued
A cyclone emergency warning has been issued for the areas between Pardoo Roadhouse and Whim Creek, including Port Hedland. The warning extends inland to Marble Bar. Authorities urge residents to shelter indoors and prepare for severe flooding.
Also Read: Port Hedland Braces for Category Five Tropical Cyclone Zelia
Meteorologist Angus Hines emphasised the severity of the situation. “It is a category 5 system, just a reminder, category 5 is the top of the scale,” he said. “Extremely damaging, destructive winds, widespread rain, flooding and storm surge are all expected.”
Port Hedland and Karratha Brace for Impact
The weather in Port Hedland is deteriorating rapidly. Heavy rain and destructive winds are expected throughout the afternoon. Karratha cyclone warnings have also been issued as the storm moves southward.
Mark Bettini from De Grey Station, 80km east of Port Hedland, described the situation. “We’ve had so much rain … nearly 600 millimetres since all this started and it’s still teeming down,” he said. “The wind is starting to pick up [and] the gum trees are blowing a bit.”
Bettini and his family are taking shelter, recalling past cyclone damage. “If things do start to turn nasty, we’ll just have to hide as best we can,” he said.
Zelia Nears Landfall
The Bureau of Meteorology warns that Cyclone Zelia is about to make landfall near the De Grey River mouth. Destructive wind gusts of up to 290km/h are expected near the storm’s core.
Despite Port Hedland lying outside the direct impact zone, the town will still experience powerful winds and torrential rain. Residents remain on high alert.
Flash Flooding and Storm Surge Threats
Heavy rain and strong winds will likely cause flash flooding across the region. Authorities warn that storm surges could push sea levels well above normal high tide, flooding coastal areas.
Hines urged caution. “When the sea levels rise much higher than a usual high tide, they can flood coastal locations,” he said. “There is a significant threat to lives and property.”
Residents between Whim Creek and Karratha should prepare for emergency conditions. Karratha Mayor Daniel Scott reassured locals. “The community is prepared given they have faced many tropical cyclones in the past,” he said.
Port Hedland Deputy Mayor Ash Christensen echoed the warning. “It’s definitely getting closer. (We’re) definitely nervous but quietly confident with where we sit in Australia’s building world,” he said.
Government Response and Evacuations
Authorities have set up evacuation centres in South Hedland and Karratha, both of which are filling quickly. Schools and major retailers have closed, and mining operations, including BHP and Rio Tinto, have been suspended.
DFES Commissioner Darren Klemm emphasised the urgency of the situation. “There is a significant threat to lives and property and I urge people to follow the directions of emergency services,” he said.
Extra emergency teams, aircraft, and flood boats have been deployed to assist in rescue and relief efforts.
Historic Cyclone Impact on Pilbara
Cyclone Zelia is one of the most powerful storms to hit the region in recent years. Western Australia’s Pilbara coast has a history of severe cyclones, including Cyclone Ilsa in 2023 and Cyclone George in 2007.
Cyclone Joan in 1975 destroyed 80% of homes in Port Hedland, while Cyclone Vance in 1999 flattened Exmouth. Cyclone Bobby in 1995 resulted in the tragic deaths of seven people.
Emergency Response and Safety Measures
Western Australia’s emergency services are fully activated, with extra personnel and equipment sent to the Pilbara region. The Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) has issued warnings, urging residents to:
✔️ Stay indoors and away from windows.
✔️ Secure loose outdoor items.
✔️ Prepare emergency kits with essentials.
✔️ Follow evacuation orders if necessary.
DFES Commissioner Darren Klemm emphasised the urgency of the situation:
“There is a significant threat to lives and property, and I urge people to follow the directions of emergency services.”
Cyclone Zelia Tracker and Forecast
- Friday afternoon/evening: Expected landfall near Port Hedland.
- Friday night: Winds of up to 290 km/h and severe flooding.
- Saturday morning: Cyclone weakens to Category 3 as it moves inland.
- Monday: System moves off the coast, reducing in strength.
What Comes Next?
Cyclone Zelia is expected to weaken as it moves inland, downgrading to a category three by Saturday morning. However, heavy rainfall and strong winds will continue across Western Australia.
Residents are advised to stay indoors, monitor weather updates, and prepare for potential evacuations. The storm’s aftermath could bring widespread flooding, road closures, and significant property damage.
As Zelia barrels towards the coast, Western Australians remain on high alert. The next few hours will be critical as the cyclone unleashes its full force on the Pilbara region.
