Thu Feb 13 07:33:47 UTC 2025: ## Category 5 Cyclone Zelia Threatens Western Australia’s Pilbara Coast

**Port Hedland, Western Australia –** A powerful Category 5 cyclone, Zelia, is set to make landfall in Western Australia’s Pilbara region late Friday, prompting urgent evacuation and shelter warnings from emergency services. The Australian Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has described the cyclone as the strongest on the scale, capable of causing widespread destruction.

Zelia is moving slowly and is expected to hit near Port Hedland, the world’s largest iron ore export point, which has already been forced to close along with the ports of Dampier and Varanus Island. The BOM warned of very destructive winds exceeding 280km/h (174mph) and extremely heavy rainfall. The older infrastructure of Port Hedland makes it particularly vulnerable to damage, according to Darren Klemm, head of Western Australia’s Department of Fire and Emergency Services.

Already, the region has experienced rainfall of 80-100mm (3.1-3.9 inches), with much heavier downpours anticipated, leading to widespread flash and riverine flooding. This poses a significant threat to life and property, Klemm stressed, urging residents to heed emergency service instructions.

The Department of Fire and Emergency Services has issued warnings of a “possible threat to lives and homes,” urging those in vulnerable housing, such as caravans or poorly maintained structures, to evacuate to the nearest shelter.

The BOM’s video forecast highlighted the intensity and danger of the system, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation and the need for immediate action. The situation remains critical, and authorities are closely monitoring the cyclone’s progress.

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