Preparations Intensify for Tropical Cyclone Zelia Along WA’s Pilbara Coast

A tropical cyclone, expected to be named Zelia, is anticipated to develop off Western Australia’s coast, bringing severe weather including heavy rain and gale force winds. Current forecasts indicate it could strengthen by Wednesday and impact areas from Cape Leveque to Port Hedland. Emergency services are distributing sandbags and advising residents to stay informed about developments.

Preparations are underway along Western Australia’s Pilbara coast as a tropical cyclone is anticipated to develop in the forthcoming days. This potential system will be designated as Tropical Cyclone Zelia. Severe weather warnings have been issued for the region, affecting areas in Kimberley and Pilbara, where heavy rainfall and gale force winds are expected to occur throughout the week.

The cyclonic system, currently identified as tropical low 18U, is situated approximately 290 kilometres north-west of Broome, moving south-west at a pace of nine kilometres per hour. Meteorological authorities predict that it will escalate to cyclone strength by Wednesday evening. According to the Bureau of Meteorology, wind speeds could reach up to 100 kph, impacting communities from Cape Leveque to Port Hedland.

The forecaster Joey Rawson acknowledged challenges in predicting the cyclone’s trajectory, noting that its forecasted landfall east of Port Hedland remains uncertain. He rated the forecasting difficulty as high, asserting, “It’s jumping around like crazy.” Projections suggest it could attain a category two classification by Thursday, with the potential for dangerous weather persisting irrespective of the cyclone’s strength.

Rainfall estimates indicate that regions along the southern Kimberley coast may receive between 30 to 40 millimetres of rain daily, with up to 80 millimetres possible in some localized areas. The slow progression of the system is likely to result in significant rainfall near its path, exacerbating already elevated saturation levels in Pilbara’s rivers and catchments.

The Department of Fire and Emergency Services reported distributing approximately 3,500 sandbags to residents in preparation for the impending severe weather. A flood advice alert has also been issued for the De Grey and parts of the Sandy Desert River catchments, prompting authorities to advise residents to stay vigilant about current weather updates.

DFES Superintendent Will Blackshaw emphasized the importance of community awareness of the evolving situation, stating, “We ask that people take the actions that are commensurate to where they are.” He noted that new warning systems provide specific instructions rather than vague general alerts, thereby guiding residents in their response to potential threats. Additionally, ten DFES personnel were dispatched from Perth to Karratha to assist with preparations, with reassessments to follow as the system develops.

In summary, Western Australia’s Pilbara coast is bracing for the potential impact of Tropical Cyclone Zelia, with preparations underway due to expected heavy rain and strong winds. Authorities continue to monitor the cyclone’s unpredictable path, issuing alerts and guiding community responses to ensure safety. As the situation evolves, residents are encouraged to remain informed and act according to official guidance.

Original Source: www.abc.net.au