Port Hedland battens down for cyclone

One of the busiest ports in Western Australia has been closed as of this morning as the Port Hedland community prepares for tropical cyclone Ilsa to cross the coast. 

The Bureau of Meteorology has advised the cyclone is likely to cross WA’s coast later tonight or early Friday morning, with severe impact likely to occur along the coast and adjacent inland parts to the east of Port Hedland and west of Wallal Downs.

The BOM has also warned the storm could reach category 5 intensity, which could bring wind gusts of up to 280 kilometres an hour.

The Pilbara Ports Authority closed the Port Hedland’s namesake port as of 10:00 am this morning with all berths and inner anchorages cleared in preparation.

Owners of recreational vessels have been told to safely secure their vessels.

Town of Port Hedland mayor Peter Carter said the community was preparing for cyclonic weather and had been following advice from the Department of Fire and Emergency Services and taking required action.

“This has included preparing our Town of Port Hedland facilities over the last few days, such as removing shade sails from our aquatic centres, securing equipment and putting sandbags in place,” Mr Carter said.

“As expected, the community is on alert, and everyone has been making the necessary preparations. People have been moving barbeques, outdoor furniture, and wheelie bins inside to avoid these becoming hazardous in strong and damaging winds.”