Port Hedland, Australia’s largest iron ore port, has closed in response to Cyclone Zelia, which has intensified into a category two system and may develop into a category three cyclone. Residents are taking precautions by stocking supplies and securing their property. Authorities have made arrangements for community support, including the establishment of an evacuation center, in anticipation of severe weather and significant rainfall expected in the region.
Australia’s largest iron ore port, located in Port Hedland, has been closed in anticipation of Cyclone Zelia, which has escalated into a category two weather system. Authorities, along with multinational mining companies, are taking action as the cyclone approaches the Western Australian coast. Escalating concerns have prompted preparations for what may develop into a category three cyclone, forecasted to impact the region as early as Friday.
Residents in Port Hedland, a town with a population of approximately 16,000, are proactively preparing for the cyclone. Local Chris Ward remarked on the community’s response, noting, “The rain has well and truly started. People are stocking up at the supermarket on food and water, and tying down stuff around their homes.” The increase in airport activity is also attributed to fly-in, fly-out workers departing the area as a precautionary measure.
The Bureau of Meteorology warns that destructive wind gusts could reach up to 220 km/h between Whim Creek and Wallal Downs, necessitating the shutdown of Port Hedland. The Pilbara Ports Authority has cleared berths to secure vessels, while BHP has ceased non-essential travel to the port. Despite the port’s closure, iron ore mines remain operational to maintain production.
Efforts are being made to ensure communities, particularly rural and Indigenous groups, have access to essential supplies amid the impending cyclone. Authorities have prepared additional personnel and resources, including flood boats and aircraft, to respond effectively. An evacuation center in Port Hedland will be established to assist residents once the storm warnings escalate to “watch and act.”
Heavy rainfall is anticipated with totals possibly exceeding 500mm in the region, leading to potential disruptions on major roads for up to a week. Residents from Bidyadanga to Dampier are urged to stay vigilant and keep abreast of updates regarding the cyclone. Meanwhile, in northern Queensland, recovery continues from severe flooding that impacted the region for nearly two weeks, inflicting casualties and displacing hundreds of individuals.
In summary, Port Hedland has closed as Cyclone Zelia approaches, with significant preparations underway to mitigate potential impacts. Residents are securing supplies and evacuations are anticipated as the storm develops into a more powerful system. Authorities are fully engaged in ensuring community safety and readiness ahead of expected severe weather conditions affecting substantial areas in Western Australia.
Original Source: thenightly.com.au
