A powerful tropical cyclone, named Zelia, is advancing toward the Pilbara region of northwestern Australia and is predicted to hit late Friday with catastrophic wind speeds. Presently, the cyclone boasts sustained winds of approximately 127 miles per hour, categorizing it as a dangerous storm on Australia's measurement scale. The Bureau of Meteorology has warned of wind gusts potentially reaching 180 miles per hour.
Meteorologist Angus Hines described Zelia as the epitome of cyclone strength, making it a serious threat to the already sparse population in the Pilbara, considered the backbone of Australia's mining sector. Crucial infrastructures such as iron ore mines operated by major corporations like Rio Tinto, Fortescue, and BHP inhabit the region. As a precaution, all services at Port Hedland, one of the world's busiest iron ore ports, were suspended on Wednesday, with additional facility closures announced soon after.
The storm is anticipated to unleash not just vicious winds but also heavy rain, with predictions indicating accumulation upwards of 19.7 inches in specific areas. This poses a very real threat of flash flooding and coastal surge impacts. Roads, national parks, schools, and local businesses are already affected as closures roll out ahead of the storm.
As preparations continue, the community remains on high alert, with operations at the Dampier Salt site also halted by Rio Tinto. The predicted landfall zone lies near towns housing approximately 38,000 residents combined, intensifying concerns about safety and economic implications as the cyclone approaches. The situation progresses as authorities monitor Zelia's path and preparedness efforts unfold.
