Tag #Category 5 Cyclone

What were the immediate consequences of Cyclone Zelia's earlier-than-expected landfall on Western Australia's Pilbara coast?

Tropical Cyclone Zelia, a category 5 system, made landfall on Western Australia's Pilbara coast east of Port Hedland several hours earlier than predicted, bringing 290km/h winds and heavy rainfall. While initially expected to hit late Friday, the cyclone's faster-than-anticipated arrival caused widespread disruption, necessitating the closure of shops, schools, roads, and ports.