Tropical Cyclone Zelia has intensified to a category five storm, resulting in the closure of all major ports in Western Australia’s iron ore export hub. Port Hedland, Dampier, and Cape Lambert are affected, prompting mining companies to pause operations and advise personnel to seek shelter. The cyclone is expected to bring severe winds and rainfall, while residents stock up on essential supplies as the storm approaches.
SYDNEY – Western Australia is preparing for the impact of Tropical Cyclone Zelia, which has escalated to a category five storm, prompting the closure of all major commodity ports in the northwest region. As residents rush to acquire essential supplies, the cyclone is projected to make landfall later today near Port Hedland, bringing wind gusts reaching 320 kph and heavy rainfall across a vast, sparsely populated area.
The Australian Weather Bureau has indicated that the worst of the cyclone’s effects have yet to be experienced, although rainfall and strong winds have already begun affecting coastal regions. The world’s largest iron ore export point, Port Hedland, was closed on Wednesday, followed by the closures of Dampier and Varanus Island ports on Thursday evening. Cape Lambert has also ceased operations in anticipation of the storm.
Port Hedland serves major clients such as BHP Group, Fortescue, and Gina Rinehart’s Hancock Prospecting, while Rio Tinto utilizes Dampier and Cape Lambert for iron ore shipments. BHP and Fortescue have paused operations at Port Hedland, instructing teams to seek shelter at home or at designated camps for their safety, with Fortescue additionally suspending activities at its Iron Bridge site and canceling non-essential travel.
Rio Tinto confirmed that all operations at its Cape Lambert and Dampier ports have been suspended, with no vessels or trains currently active at these locations. The company acknowledged that weather conditions would impact its first-quarter shipments and stated, “The company is working to mitigate impacts and will provide operational updates as appropriate.”
As the cyclone looms, Dalian iron ore futures were not adversely affected by the potential supply disruptions from Western Australia. Port Hedland’s 15,000 residents, predominantly employees of mining companies, have been advised to stay indoors, while some supermarkets have closed due to depleted essential supplies as residents prepare for the cyclone’s arrival.
In summary, Tropical Cyclone Zelia poses a significant threat to Western Australia, resulting in port closures and impacting iron ore exports. Major mining companies have suspended operations and urged personnel to seek shelter, while local residents have responded by stocking up on essential goods. The situation highlights the potential vulnerabilities in the supply chain for iron ore amidst extreme weather events.
Original Source: www.chinadailyhk.com
