Cyclone Zelia Unleashes Chaos: Destructive Winds, Flood Alerts, and Unprecedented Rainfall

Satellite imagery of Tropical Cyclone Zelia on Feb. 13, 2025. 

(Australia Bureau of Meteorology)

Residents in Port Hedland, Western Australia, are breathing a sigh of relief after Cyclone Zelia veered away at the last moment, narrowly avoiding a direct hit. However, the powerful storm still left a significant impact, unleashing torrential rain, fierce winds, and widespread flooding across the region. As emergency services scramble to assess the damage, communities brace for continued flooding in the days ahead.

A Narrow Escape, But Not Without Consequences

Cyclone Zelia initially appeared on course for a direct impact on Port Hedland, one of Western Australia’s key coastal towns. However, in a last-minute shift, the cyclone changed course, making landfall approximately an hour’s drive away at a remote cattle station. Despite this deviation, Port Hedland was not spared from the storm’s wrath. The region experienced extreme weather conditions, including uprooted trees, flooded roads, and damaged homes.

Some areas received an astonishing 500mm of rain over just a few days, overwhelming drainage systems and causing widespread inundation. Emergency services responded to at least 60 distress calls overnight, with officials expecting the number to rise significantly as assessments continue.

Cyclone Zelia’s Path of Destruction

The Bureau of Meteorology confirmed that Cyclone Zelia made landfall as a Category 4 storm, bringing destructive wind gusts exceeding 200 km/h. The cyclone weakened upon hitting land, transitioning into a tropical low, but the heavy rainfall continued to pose a significant threat.

The Pilbara region remains at high risk of flooding, with major rivers swelling beyond their banks. The Greys River, in particular, is experiencing major flooding, with water levels continuing to rise. Senior meteorologist Sarah Scully warned that additional rainfall of up to 120mm is expected over the next 24 hours, exacerbating the situation.

“Even though the winds have eased below gale force, the flooding impacts continue as the rain persists,” Scully stated. Cyclone Zelia, now classified as a tropical low, is gradually moving southward at a speed of 8 km/h, dragging heavy rainfall into western Kimberley and northern Gascoyne.

Emergency Response and Warnings

Authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant despite Cyclone Zelia’s weakening intensity. Emergency warnings have been lifted for some areas, but significant flood risks remain. With many roads submerged and bridges impassable, emergency crews are working around the clock to rescue stranded individuals and restore access to affected communities.

In Warralong, 63 people were evacuated via helicopter to Port Hedland, flown in groups of 13 to 16 at a time. Meanwhile, extensive damage has been reported at De Grey Station, where buildings, including staff quarters and the station kitchen, sustained significant destruction. Trees were uprooted, and some roofs were blown off. The helicopter hangar remained intact, and aerial surveys are assessing further damage and the welfare of livestock. Rising water levels have prompted the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) to evaluate additional support for the station.

The SES and local government agencies have deployed additional resources to assist in flood response efforts. Sandbags have been distributed to vulnerable areas, and temporary shelters have been established for those displaced by rising waters. The DFES has advised residents in flood-prone areas to prepare for potential evacuations.

Mining and Economic Disruptions

The Pilbara region, a critical hub for iron ore, copper, and gold mining, was heavily impacted as Cyclone Zelia disrupted operations. Major mineral export centers, including Port Hedland, Port Dampier, and the oil and gas shipping facility on Varanus Island, suspended activities to prepare for the storm.

Mining giants Rio Tinto and BHP halted operations, clearing vessels from ports and pausing rail and flight services. Rio Tinto stated it was “too early to assess the duration of closures or the full impact on operations.” Cyclone Zelia follows Cyclone Ilsa, the last Category 5 cyclone to hit the region in 2023, highlighting the vulnerability of Western Australia’s cyclone-prone northwest coast.

The Science Behind Cyclone Zelia’s Impact

Tropical cyclones derive their strength from warm ocean waters, which fuel their rotation and wind speeds. Once a cyclone makes landfall, it loses its primary energy source and begins to weaken. However, Cyclone Zelia’s vast moisture content means that even as its winds subside, the storm continues to produce extreme rainfall, leading to widespread flooding.

Meteorologists have described Cyclone Zelia’s rainfall as “exceptionally rare” for the region, with some weather stations reporting record-breaking amounts. The impact of such high rainfall in a short period has overwhelmed natural drainage systems, leading to flash floods and significant river surges.

Preparing for the Aftermath

As Cyclone Zelia continues its slow journey southward, communities in its path must prepare for further disruptions. The heavy rains could trigger landslides in hilly areas and further strain infrastructure. Power outages have already been reported in some areas, with utility crews working to restore electricity as quickly as possible.

The agricultural sector is also feeling the effects of Cyclone Zelia. Flooding has impacted cattle stations and farmlands, leading to concerns over crop losses and livestock safety. Farmers are being advised to move livestock to higher ground where possible and secure essential supplies in anticipation of continued adverse weather.

A Reminder of Nature’s Unpredictability

Cyclone Zelia serves as yet another reminder of the unpredictability of extreme weather events and the need for communities to remain prepared. While technological advancements in meteorology have improved forecasting and early warning systems, nature’s last-minute shifts can still catch many off guard.

Authorities continue to urge residents to stay updated through official channels and to heed any further warnings regarding potential flooding. The next 48 hours will be critical in determining the extent of long-term damage and recovery efforts needed for the affected regions.

Looking Ahead

As Western Australia recovers from the chaos left in Cyclone Zelia’s wake, attention will turn to rebuilding efforts and reinforcing infrastructure against future storms. Experts emphasize the importance of continued investment in disaster preparedness, including improved drainage systems and better flood mitigation strategies.

For now, the immediate priority remains the safety of residents and minimizing further damage. With floodwaters still rising and emergency response teams working tirelessly, Western Australians are once again demonstrating their resilience in the face of nature’s fury.

As the sun rises over the west coast, communities remain hopeful that the worst is behind them. However, with heavy rain still expected, they remain on high alert, ready to navigate whatever challenges Cyclone Zelia’s lingering presence may bring.