Pilbara Ports Reopen Following Tropical Cyclone Zelia

Tropical Cyclone Zelia has caused temporary closures in Western Australia’s Pilbara region, particularly affecting Dampier, Varanus Island, and Port Hedland. After inspections confirmed safety, Dampier and Varanus Island ports have reopened, while local companies assess damage and prepare to resume operations. An emergency warning is in effect as flooding risks increase in some areas.

Western Australia’s ports of Dampier and Varanus Island have reopened following the impacts of Tropical Cyclone Zelia, as reported by the ports’ operator. The reopening occurred after inspections confirmed safe operational conditions, subsequent to the ports being closed on Thursday evening due to Zelia, which was the most severe storm to affect the Pilbara coast since Cyclone Ilsa in April 2023.

Cyclone Zelia made landfall with heavy rainfall and wind gusts reaching 290 kph (180 mph). Its approach led to the temporary closure of Port Hedland, the world’s largest iron ore hub, as well as Cape Lambert port. Pilbara Ports has now confirmed the resumption of activities following safety evaluations of navigation channels and berths.

As Zelia weakened to a category four cyclone after crossing the coast near Port Hedland, the cyclone continued moving southward and transforming into a tropical low. Meteorologist Angus Hines warned that some towns in the Pilbara region might experience flooding due to the heavy rains, which risks isolating residents.

An emergency warning remained in effect for local residents from Warralong to Marble Bar, approximately 157 kilometers (97 miles) southeast of Port Hedland. Major companies operating in the area, such as BHP Group, Fortescue, and Hancock Prospecting, have adjusted their operations accordingly, with Fortescue assessing its sites and reporting minimal damage so far.

BHP ceased operations at Port Hedland for safety reasons, while Fortescue had already paused its Iron Bridge operations and scaled back travel to its Pilbara sites. The situation is being closely monitored, with companies eager to resume normal activities as soon as the conditions allow.

In summary, the reopening of Dampier and Varanus Island ports signals a return to normalcy in the Pilbara region following the severe impacts of Tropical Cyclone Zelia. Despite the cyclone’s initial intensity and consequential closures, inspections confirmed safe operation conditions. Companies in the area are working diligently to assess and restore their activities while prioritizing safety for residents and employees.

Original Source: www.bairdmaritime.com