Tropical Cyclone Zelia is rapidly intensifying and is set to cross Western Australia’s Pilbara coastline as a cataclysmic category five system on Friday afternoon, February 15, 2024. This storm, the most powerful category of tropical cyclone possible, poses grave risks to communities along the coast, particularly Karratha and Port Hedland.
According to the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM), Zelia currently sits approximately 120 kilometers north-northwest of Port Hedland and is moving ominously toward land. Senior meteorologist Angus Hines warned, “That is the most powerful tropical cyclone you can get.” Just prior to noon on Thursday, Zelia was officially upgraded to category five following predictions indicating destructive wind gusts of up to 290 kilometers per hour.
The cyclone is expected to make landfall between Karratha and De Grey, near Port Hedland, on Friday afternoon, possibly around 5 or 6 pm AWST. Hines noted the forecast included concerning estimates of wind speeds, which could reach up to 200 km/h near the crossing point, with gusts becoming even more damaging. He stated, “Winds of 290 km/h are strong enough to take out complete houses, trees, and powerlines, causing widespread damage.”
Heavy rainfall could lead to flash flooding across affected regions, with the BOM warning of potential storm surges delivering large waves along the coast. Local residents have been advised to brace for tides significantly above the normal high tide level on Friday night, which could inundate low-lying areas and coastal roads.
Authorities have responded by closing schools and shutting down major roads, including the Great Northern Highway, as residents prepare to weather the storm. Supermarkets reported increased activity as local residents stocked up on essentials. “People are stocking up at the supermarket on food and water,” said local resident Chris Ward, who also noted increased foot traffic at the airport as FIFO workers evacuated.
The closure of the Port Hedland airport on Wednesday highlighted the seriousness of the impending cyclone, as Qantas and Virgin Australia had to cancel flights due to operational safety concerns. DFES Commissioner Darren Klemm confirmed, “We’ve significantly boosted our resources in the Pilbara... bringing flood boats, helicopters, and emergency personnel to prepare for the cyclone.”
Currently, schools across the region are shuttered as officials prioritize the safety of students and staff. “No one will be allowed on site as it will not be safe,” said the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES). A total of 14 schools have closed in anticipation of the cyclone's arrival.
Residents are being reminded to take all necessary survival measures. The Department of Fire and Emergency Services has opened evacuation centres, including one at the Karratha Leisureplex. They have advised individuals relocating to these centres to bring medications and identification but not pets for health and safety reasons. “Please take any essentials with you,” stressed the DFES.
Mick Casey, who has lived through multiple cyclones since the 1980s, emphasizes the importance of preparation. “We’ve been preparing the house over the last few days. We’ve tied down the caravan, boat, and stored the cars away,” he said. Residents are encouraged to manage risks and take precautions serious.
The threat of flooding is compounded by overflowing river catchments, with some forecasts predicting more than 500 millimeters of rain could fall. “The intensity of Tropical Cyclone Zelia means there is a significant threat to lives and property,” Klemm warned. “I urge people to follow the directions of emergency services.”
Evacuation processes are underway, with major retailers now closed across Dampier, Karratha, and Port Hedland as the region braces for the storm. “Coles, Woolies, and Metcash have undertaken advanced supply initiatives,” Klemm noted, confirming adequate stock levels for those who remained. “Yes, there’s been some increase in purchasing... but retailers believe they’ll bounce back once the storm passes.”
The preparation response has extended to ensuring isolated communities were adequately supplied, as many may be cut off from transport routes for extended periods. Areas under potential direct threat from the cyclone have been placed under watch and act alerts, allowing time for the public to make preparations.
The last category five cyclone to impact Australia was Severe Tropical Cyclone Ilsa, which hit the Pilbara coast last year. Fortunately, the sparsely populated road paths bore the brunt of the storm. The localities impacted are encouraged to stay vigilant and pay close attention to warnings as they develop.
Forecast models indicate Zelia may move between regions and impact various areas along the Pilbara coast. Uncertainty concerning the exact path of landfall remains high, creating significant stress for thousands of residents. “It’s going to maintain intensity through Friday and unfortunately continue to be category 5 as it crosses the coast,” stated BOM spokesperson Dean Narramore.
With potential catastrophic impacts looming, the message is clear: Stay safe, stay informed, and heed the official instructions to prepare for the storm of the year.