Warning for WA residents as major flooding hits after tropical cyclone Zelia

While Ex-Tropical Cyclone Zelia has moved on, the devastation left behind remains, with flooding still impacting communities across WA’s Pilbara region.

Emergency services are continuing efforts to rescue stranded residents and assist in recovery operations.

The small community of Warralong was left cut off by severe flooding on Saturday, leaving residents stranded and in urgent need of assistance.

Over the course of four helicopter trips, the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) successfully relocated 60 people to safety in South Hedland.

The DFES reported that the operation has been challenging due to the conditions, but efforts are ongoing to ensure residents receive the help they need.

“Heavy rainfall associated with Tropical Cyclone Zelia is resulting in river rises in parts of the Pilbara Coastal Rivers catchment,” the DFES warned.

While the cyclone itself has passed, authorities are warning that significant rainfall and flood risks still remain.

The cyclone made landfall earlier than anticipated last Friday as a category four system.

It brought destructive winds and heavy rainfall across the coast about 60 kilometres to the east of Port Hedland.

Wind gusts at the core of the cyclone measured around 270km/h, with peak wind gusts recorded at Port Hedland were about 120 km/h, according to the Bureau of Meteorology.

Residents in flood-affected areas are urged to monitor updates from authorities for any warnings or evacuation orders.