Tropical Cyclone Zelia Develops Off WA’s North-West Coast, Residents Urged to Prepare
Tropical Cyclone Zelia has formed off the north-west coast of WA and is expected to intensify before landfall later this week. Residents are urged by authorities to prepare for severe weather conditions, including damaging winds and heavy rainfall. Safety measures are being implemented across communities, particularly in coastal areas.
Tropical Cyclone Zelia has formed off the north-west coast of Western Australia. Currently located 280 kilometres west of Broome and 320 kilometres north-east of Port Hedland, the storm is moving slowly towards the eastern Pilbara coast. Residents from Broome to Dampier, as well as inland areas such as Marble Bar, are being advised to prepare for the approaching cyclone.
The system is classified as a category one but is anticipated to intensify to category three status by Friday when it is expected to make landfall as a severe tropical cyclone. The Bureau of Meteorology warns of potentially damaging wind gusts reaching up to 120 kilometres per hour and heavy rainfall between Broome and Dampier, which may result in flash flooding in adjoining inland regions.
Superintendent Leon Gardiner from the Department of Fire and Emergency Services emphasized the importance of timely preparations, stating that residents should not wait until the last moment. He advised, “If we see winds … above 125kph we’ll escalate to a cyclone watch-and-act.” This protocol indicates that residents should finalize their preparation plans as the cyclone approaches to implement emergency measures if necessary.
Efforts are being made to ensure the safety of those living in remote areas, with DEFS actively collaborating with pastoral stations, tourism operators, and local communities. Superintendent Gardiner indicated that plans are in place to deploy resources either before or after the cyclone’s impact. He reiterated that the agency’s approach remains consistent in terms of communication and preparedness, regardless of the population density in these regions.
Some residents at a caravan park in Port Hedland have been urged to evacuate for safety reasons. Bryan and Jenny Jenner decided to relocate their caravan and stay with friends, with Ms. Jenner stating, “We’ve been told all residents have to pack out and get out so that’s what we’re doing.” The couple emphasized the seriousness of the storm, drawing from previous experiences during severe floods in Queensland.
Port Hedland, which hosts the world’s largest bulk export port by tonnage, is taking precautions by clearing out ships to prevent infrastructure damage. Given the substantial economic activities occurring there, including the operations of major mining companies, it is crucial for all ships to depart by Wednesday evening in anticipation of the cyclone’s impact.
In summary, Tropical Cyclone Zelia has formed near the north-west coast of Western Australia and is expected to escalate to severe status by the week’s end. Residents are urged to take preparatory measures as the cyclone approaches, with critical safety communications from the authorities already in place. The situation demands vigilance from both local communities and industries along the affected routes.
Original Source: www.abc.net.au
