Severe Weather Alert: Cyclone Zelia Approaches Western Australia

Tropical Cyclone Zelia is moving towards Western Australia, with warnings of 160km/h winds and potential flash flooding. At present, the cyclone is categorized as level 1 and could strengthen to category 3 by Friday. Meanwhile, Queensland residents face flood impacts but expect reduced rainfall moving forward. Weather warnings are active across various Australian states, highlighting the need for preparedness.

Residents in Western Australia have been alerted to prepare for severe weather as Tropical Cyclone Zelia approaches the region, with forecasts predicting wind gusts up to 160km/h and flash flooding. The Bureau of Meteorology has issued both warnings and watches for areas from Broome to Port Hedland, indicating potential severe impacts Thursday and Friday.

Currently, Cyclone Zelia is categorized as a level 1 cyclone, having recorded wind gusts of 120km/h. At 2 AM AWST on Wednesday, it was located approximately 280km west of Broome and 320km northeast of Port Hedland. Experts predict the cyclone could strengthen to category 3 by Friday as it approaches the east Pilbara coast.

Warnings indicate that damaging winds could affect the coast between Broome and Port Hedland, particularly extending to Dampier if the cyclone shifts west. By Thursday, destructive winds could escalate to 160km/h along sections between Bidyadanga and Port Hedland, bringing heavy rainfall that may lead to flash flooding across coastal and inland regions.

Local residents, especially in De Grey and Bidyadanga, have been cautioned about dangerous storm tides that could significantly raise tidal levels, causing flooding and damaging waves as the cyclone approaches landfall. For safety updates and guidance on cyclone preparedness, affected individuals are encouraged to visit Emergency WA.

Meanwhile, in Queensland, recent heavy rains caused flooding but expectations of lower rainfall indicate the worst may have passed. Bureau of Meteorology reports have noted that the highest recorded rainfall in recent hours was 112mm at Fisher Creek. Nonetheless, further river rises may occur in already saturated areas.

Flood warnings remain in effect for several rivers in Queensland, including major warnings for the Flinders and Herbert rivers, and moderate warnings for other key waterways. Local officials continue to assess the full extent of flood impacts across affected regions, noting the emotional toll on residents as they confront damages to their homes and belongings.

In terms of broader weather conditions, temperatures vary across the continent, with Perth set to reach 36C by Saturday and Adelaide at risk of a scorching 43C on Wednesday. Rain and possible showers are anticipated in several areas including Ingham and Sydney, while severe heat impacts the southern regions like Melbourne and Hobart.

The impending arrival of Tropical Cyclone Zelia poses significant threats to the east Pilbara and adjacent west Kimberley areas with potential wind gusts of 160km/h and severe rainfall. Meanwhile, Queensland is coping with the aftermath of recent floods, with a comprehensive monitoring of flood risks across various river systems in place. Residents are urged to stay updated on weather advisories and prepare adequately for severe impacts from nature’s threats.

Original Source: www.news.com.au