Authorities have enacted emergency measures as Tropical Cyclone Zelia, now upgraded to the highest possible Category 5, threatens the Pilbara region of Western Australia. Fearing severe repercussions, schools, ports, and flights have been closed to protect residents before the storm's anticipated landfall on Friday.
According to Australia’s Bureau of Meteorology (BOM), Tropical Cyclone Zelia rapidly intensified after forming off the coast on February 11, 2025. By February 13 at 03:00 UTC, it had reached Category 5 strength. The cyclone is currently slow-moving over warm ocean waters, approximately 130 km (80 miles) northwest of Port Hedland. It is expected to maintain its intensity and make landfall on February 14.
"Wind gusts up to 320 km/h (200 mph) are expected, capable of causing widespread destruction," BOM warned, indicating the storm’s potential to uproot trees and damage buildings, power lines, and communication networks. The anticipated impacts are severe, with extreme conditions expected to disrupt regional trade and transportation.
"Heavy rainfall is expected to intensify as the cyclone nears the coast," BOM added, warning of significant flooding risks, especially for the De Grey River catchment area, where recent heavy rainfall raises the potential for rapid river rises. Flood watches and warnings have been issued for various coastal catchments, including the Pilbara and the Onslow coast.
Residents along the Pilbara coast, particularly those between Port Hedland and Roebourne, are advised to prepare for the worst. "Residents should prepare for severe impacts, including prolonged power outages, impassable roads, and potential evacuations," the Department of Fire and Emergency Services stated, opening evacuation centers for those needing shelter.
The slow-moving Cyclone Zelia is on track to cross the coast between Port Hedland and Roebourne at nighttime on February 14, with damaging winds expected to peak. At landfall, the cyclone is likely to bring destructive wind gusts up to 160 km/h (100 mph), along with heavy and potentially life-threatening rain.
The storm's slow-forward motion of just 2 km/h (1.2 mph) is concerning, as it could lead to extremely high rainfall totals concentrated over short periods. Flooding is anticipated to harm roads, transport networks, and overall community safety.
Port operations at key hubs like Dampier and Varanus Island have already halted, with operators taking precautionary measures to mitigate potential losses and maintain safety. These ports are integral to Australia's commodity exports, and their closure is likely to impact various industries.
Highways and roads have also begun closing due to severe weather conditions. The Department of Fire and Emergency Services has warned of dangerous road conditions, with already established water on some routes, which could become impassable.
"There is a possible threat to lives and homes as Cyclone Zelia approaches," the Emergency Services reiterated, encouraging everyone to take necessary precautions. Authorities have undertaken evacuations and are continuously monitoring the situation to provide updates as the storm progresses.
With the cyclone’s core projected to move closer to land, western Australia stands ready to face its fury. Residents are being urged to adhere to weather updates, follow evacuation advisories, and prepare for possible disaster responses.
The Bureau of Meteorology sees Zelia continuing to pose severe risks, even contributing to conditions for flash flooding along the coast throughout the day on Friday. The expectation of destructive winds coupled with heavy rainfall prompts both urgency and caution.
Experts remind coastal residents of the importance of remaining vigilant as Cyclone Zelia advances, as any lack of preparation could exacerbate the current situation. Continuous updates and alerts from the BOM will guide residents through the cyclone's consequences as the system moves inland and impacts surrounding areas.