The Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) has officially downgraded ex-tropical cyclone Zelia, which had initially hit the coast near De Grey, east of Port Hedland, as a category four cyclone around midday yesterday. By the early hours of this morning, the system had weakened to below cyclone intensity.
While the cyclone itself has dissipated, local authorities have issued major flood warnings, as the system continues to bring significant rainfall inland through the eastern Pilbara region. Authorities are urging locals to stay vigilant as flooding remains a concern.
Marble Bar residents reported that while the town’s center avoided severe flooding, the Coongan River has caused extensive damage in outlying areas. Kath Nation, who manages the Marble Bar caravan park, noted that the river was at its highest level ever. Authorities are closely monitoring floodwaters, as a flood watch and act warning remains in place for the area.
DFES has confirmed significant flooding along the Coongan River, with reports of up to 600mm of rain in some areas. Despite the cyclone’s weakening, floodwaters are still rising, and officials are concerned about the potential dangers posed by the flooding.
DFES Deputy Incident Controller William Blackshaw mentioned that the main focus is assessing the damage and deploying resources to remote communities and cattle stations. Preliminary reports suggest some of these stations have sustained severe damage.
Evacuations have been carried out in several areas, including the town of Warralong, which saw 63 residents airlifted to South Hedland for safety. Clarrie Robinson, a community leader, shared that despite some damage to trees, the homes in Warralong appeared intact, and the residents are in good spirits.
In Port Hedland, locals Zach Green and Bobbi Lockyer narrowly avoided a major disaster when a tree fell close to their home. They had initially planned to stay, but decided at the last minute to shelter with family.
The total rainfall in the Pilbara region reached impressive figures, with the Upper North Pole gauge recording a staggering 278mm. The Coongan River, located near Marble Bar, surged to 10.2 meters, nearly two meters higher than the previous record.
As floodwaters continue to affect communities, DFES officials are working around the clock to assess damage, particularly in remote areas. The resources sector, including major companies like Fortescue and Woodside, is assessing the impact on operations, though Fortescue has reported some disruptions, while Woodside’s LNG facilities have resumed normal operations.
The cyclone also caused significant damage to properties, with reports of destroyed roofs and water ingress. DFES Commissioner Darren Klemm confirmed that over 100 emergency services staff have been deployed to assist in the recovery efforts, including repairs to homesteads and damaged infrastructure.
The BOM has issued further warnings for parts of the Pilbara and Gascoyne regions, with heavy rainfall expected to continue, posing a risk of flash flooding. Some areas, including Newman and Jigalong, are likely to experience continued severe weather.
Horizon Power, which serves the affected areas, reports minimal power outages, with only around 19 customers still without power. Crews have been working hard to ensure that safety remains the top priority.
Though conditions are beginning to ease, roads across the region remain hazardous. DFES has issued a list of major road closures, and travelers are urged not to attempt driving through flooded roads. Even small amounts of water can pose a serious risk, as debris and hidden hazards may be present.
Local authorities are reminding residents to remain cautious as the floodwaters persist, with major flooding expected to continue until mid next week. Road safety and staying clear of floodwaters are critical to avoiding further risks.