Closure of Western Australia Ports Due to Tropical Cyclone Zelia

Tropical Cyclone Zelia, now a Category 5 storm, has caused the closure of ports in Western Australia’s Pilbara region, including Dampier and Varanus Island. Emergency services urge caution due to the potential for significant damage. The cyclone is expected to make landfall soon, leading to widespread operational suspensions across key facilities in the region.

Tropical Cyclone Zelia has prompted the closure of ports in Western Australia’s Pilbara region, specifically Dampier and Varanus Island, effective 6 PM (1000 GMT) on Thursday. The cyclone has intensified to a Category 5 storm, anticipated to make landfall on Friday, which poses a serious threat to lives and property, according to the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM). Emergency services have advised residents to heed warnings and directions.

Port operations are being affected significantly, with the Port of Dampier primarily responsible for the shipment of iron ore from Rio Tinto and Varanus Island serving as a hub for oil and gas processing. Pilbara Ports confirmed that vessels are being cleared in preparation for the storm.

In relation to liquefied natural gas facilities, Shell has stated that adverse conditions are expected until February 16, resulting in postponed operations from its Prelude floating LNG facility. Similarly, Woodside Energy is implementing safety measures to protect personnel and assets at its Pluto LNG and North West Shelf LNG plant.

These closures follow the recent shut down of Port Hedland, the largest iron ore export point globally, which caters to companies such as BHP Group and Fortescue. Due to the cyclone’s intensity, there are concerns about the vulnerability of older buildings in Port Hedland.

As Tropical Cyclone Zelia approaches, there is heightened anxiety regarding the potential shift in the storm’s path which could lead to more extensive impacts on Port Hedland. The BOM has noted that storms of this magnitude are infrequent, with the most recent comparable event occurring in April 2023.

In summary, Tropical Cyclone Zelia, categorized as a Category 5 storm, has led to the closure of crucial ports in Western Australia’s Pilbara region. The situation has prompted emergency services to issue warnings regarding potential damage to life and property. With operations at multiple ports being suspended, the region prepares for the impending impact of this rare and dangerous cyclone.

Original Source: www.chinadailyhk.com