Cyclone Zelia Brings Heavy Rain and Strong Winds to Northwest Australia
Flood warnings have been issued for northwest Australia after Tropical Cyclone Zelia made landfall on Friday, bringing intense rainfall and strong winds to the region.
According to the Australian Bureau of Meteorology (BoM), the cyclone crossed the coast of Western Australia near the small town of De Grey in the state’s northwest Pilbara region as a category four storm shortly after midday local time on Friday, hours earlier than expected. The storm was forecast to reach the coast in the evening as a category five storm.
Record Rainfall and Strong Winds
Wind gusts of up to 220 km per hour and over 500 millimetres of rain were recorded in De Grey before the storm quickly weakened. The strong winds downed trees across the region, but as of Saturday morning, no major damage or injuries had been reported.
Flood Warnings and Road Closures
Authorities have warned that heavy rain is expected to persist and could lead to flash flooding, with record rainfall reported across parts of the Pilbara coast. Angus Hines from the BoM said that significant flooding impacts are expected for the next several days, with widespread road closures expected to continue for the same period as the clean-up continues.
Emergency Services Warn of Hazards
The WA Department of Fire and Emergency Services has urged Pilbara residents to exercise caution around damaged buildings, floodwaters, and fallen powerlines and trees. Significant road closures should be expected as water levels rise, with some towns isolated after roads were cut off.
Conclusion
Tropical Cyclone Zelia has brought significant weather disruptions to northwest Australia, with flood warnings in place and widespread road closures expected to continue for several days. The community is urged to exercise caution and follow emergency services’ guidance to ensure safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the current status of the cyclone?
A: The cyclone has been downgraded to an ex-tropical cyclone, but heavy rain is expected to persist and could lead to flash flooding.
Q: What is the impact of the cyclone on the region?
A: The cyclone has brought record rainfall and strong winds to the region, with widespread road closures and significant flooding expected to continue for several days.
Q: What should residents do to stay safe?
A: Residents are advised to exercise caution around damaged buildings, floodwaters, and fallen powerlines and trees, and to follow emergency services’ guidance to ensure safety.