Category 5 Cyclone Zelia Approaches Western Australia Coast

Tropical Cyclone Zelia, now a Category 5 system, is poised to make landfall along Australia's Pilbara coast, particularly threatening Port Hedland and Karratha. Forecasters warn of destructive winds reaching up to 320 km/h and rainfall totals exceeding 500 mm, which could lead to severe flooding and damage to infrastructure. Emergency services have issued warnings for residents in affected areas to seek shelter immediately as conditions are expected to deteriorate rapidly. The cyclone's slow movement is anticipated to result in significant impacts across the mining-rich region, prompting port closures and evacuations. Authorities have deployed additional resources, including a heavy-lift helicopter, to assist with safety and recovery efforts. This event marks a rare occurrence, as the last Category 5 cyclone to impact the area was in April 2023.