Australia: Cyclone “Zelia” Hits One of the World’s Major Mining Regions

15th February 2025

1 minute read

Australia: Cyclone "Zelia" Hits One of the World's Major Mining Regions

The powerful cyclone Zelia struck the coast of Western Australia on Friday morning, threatening one of the world’s most significant mining regions. According to the Australian Bureau of Meteorology, the cyclone’s winds reached 270 km/h (167 mph).

The meteorological agency reported that the cyclone made landfall at 12:30 PM local time (04:30 GMT) and was centered 50 km east of Port Hedland, one of the world’s busiest ports for iron ore exports.

Despite the storm’s intensity, meteorologists predict that the cyclone’s destructive core will likely spare the city, though strong winds will continue to impact the area.

According to Agence France-Presse (AFP), Zelia, classified as a Category 4 cyclone on a five-tier scale, is expected to continue moving southward over land while gradually weakening. However, the Bureau of Meteorology has warned of a potentially dangerous storm surge in the coming hours, which could lead to a significant rise in water levels and large waves capable of causing damage and flooding in low-lying coastal areas.

Western Australia is a key hub for iron ore, copper, and gold mining, and shipping and transportation operations have been disrupted by the storm.

The Anglo-Australian mining group Rio Tinto announced that it had halted the movement of its ships and trains in the area. The company added that it is too early to determine the duration of the suspension and its potential impacts.