Tropical Cyclone Zelia Develops Off Western Australia’s Coast, Intensifies Preparation Efforts

Tropical Cyclone Zelia has formed off the north-west coast of WA, expected to intensify to category three before crossing the coast later this week. DFES urges residents to prepare amidst forecasts of damaging winds and heavy rainfall, with potential flash flooding.

Tropical Cyclone Zelia has formed off the north-west coast of Western Australia, located 280 kilometers west of Broome and 320 kilometers north-east of Port Hedland. It is anticipated that Zelia will continue to strengthen prior to making landfall later in the week. The cyclone, initially categorized as a level one system, is projected to escalate to category three intensity by Friday by which time it is expected to cross the coast as a severe tropical cyclone.

The Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) is emphasizing the importance of preparedness among residents in affected areas. Communities extending from Broome to Dampier, as well as inland towards Marble Bar, are advised to get ready for potentially severe impacts. The Bureau of Meteorology has warned that damaging wind gusts, reaching speeds of up to 120 kilometers per hour, may develop in the coming day, accompanied by heavy rain that could lead to flash flooding in coastal regions and nearby inland areas.

As the cyclone approaches, destructive winds of up to 160 kilometers per hour may soon affect locations between Bidyadanga and Port Hedland. DFES Kimberley Superintendent Leon Gardiner has urged residents to finalize their emergency preparations.

Superintendent Gardiner stated, “If we see winds … above 125 kilometers per hour we’ll escalate to a cyclone watch-and-act.” He notified that residents should be actively preparing rather than waiting until the last moment. The DFES is engaging with rural communities, pastoral stations, and tourism operations to ensure readiness.

Residents in Port Hedland, like Bryan and Jenny Jenner, are being advised to evacuate for safety. They reported, “We have been told all residents have to pack out and get out so that’s what we are doing.” As a precaution, the world’s largest bulk export port is clearing out ships to mitigate infrastructure damage, with expectations that all vessels will be moved by Wednesday night.

The economic impact of Zelia could be significant, as Port Hedland represents a critical trade hub, processing hundreds of millions in trades every day, serving major mining companies. Pilbara Ports anticipates completion of ship clearouts to ensure safety and operational continuity during the storm events.

In conclusion, Tropical Cyclone Zelia poses a significant threat to Western Australia’s north-west coast, with expectations of intensifying winds and heavy rain. Residents are advised to take necessary precautions and evacuate if instructed. The potential impact on trade and infrastructure necessitates prompt action and preparedness measures from local authorities and affected communities.

Original Source: www.abc.net.au