Tropical Cyclone Zelia Triggers Closures of Major Western Australian Ports
Tropical Cyclone Zelia has led to the closure of major ports in Western Australia, including Dampier and Varanus Island, as precautionary measures against the approaching storm. Upgraded to Category 5, Zelia is expected to impact vital commodity export areas, with concerns over infrastructure vulnerability at Port Hedland. Oil and gas operations, including Shell and Woodside Energy, are also experiencing delays and safety measures amid the storm’s threat.
Tropical Cyclone Zelia has prompted the closure of significant ports in Western Australia, including Dampier and Varanus Island. Set to close at 6 p.m. local time on Thursday, these measures are being taken to mitigate potential damage as the cyclone approaches. Upgraded to a Category 5 storm, Zelia is expected to land in the Pilbara region, a critical area for commodity exports.
The Australian Bureau of Meteorology has indicated that cyclones of such strength, with winds exceeding 280 kph (174 mph), are infrequent, with the last occurrence recorded in April 2023. The closure of Dampier, necessary for iron ore shipments, and Varanus Island, crucial for oil and gas processing, highlights the cyclone’s impact on vital infrastructure. Additionally, vessels are being relocated as the Pilbara Ports Authority prepares for the storm.
Operations at liquefied natural gas facilities in the region are already showing signs of disruption; Shell has postponed offtakes from its Prelude floating LNG production due to predicted adverse conditions. Woodside Energy, accountable for two LNG plants in the area, is implementing safety protocols to protect its workforce and assets. Port Hedland, a significant iron ore export zone, is also at risk due to older infrastructure, with officials voicing concerns about its vulnerability as Zelia approaches.
Darren Klemm, the head of Western Australia’s Department of Fire and Emergency Services, warned of the potential ramifications if the storm’s path shifts eastward, emphasizing the critical need for preparedness in handling this natural disaster.
The closures and disruptions emphasize the storm’s impact on Australia’s economy, particularly regarding its resource exports and energy sector, necessitating careful monitoring and immediate protective actions by authorities in anticipation of Tropical Cyclone Zelia’s landfall.
In summary, the impending arrival of Tropical Cyclone Zelia has led to the preemptive closure of crucial ports in Western Australia, particularly Dampier and Varanus Island. The cyclone, classified as a Category 5 due to its high wind speeds, poses significant risks to both infrastructure and operations in the region, particularly for oil, gas, and iron ore exports. Authorities are taking diligent measures to safeguard personnel and assets, highlighting the urgency of response during such severe weather events.
Original Source: www.indexbox.io
