Onslow, Australia. Cyclone Mitchell has strengthened to Category 3 and is moving toward northwest Australia, prompting port closures and warnings of destructive winds and flooding. Authorities said the Pilbara region of Western Australia remains on high alert as the storm approaches the coast.
Storm intensity and track
Mitchell is packing sustained winds of 140km/h, with destructive gusts of up to 195km/h, according to officials. The system was reported to be heading toward northwest Australia, with Port Hedland directly in its path.
The Bureau of Meteorology warned that the cyclone’s intensity could trigger widespread destruction and mass power outages. The storm was expected to make landfall between Exmouth and Onslow within hours, bringing torrential rain and a high risk of flash flooding across the western Pilbara coast.
Port closures and regional alert
Authorities shuttered Port Hedland on Saturday, alongside the neighbouring ports of Ashburton, Cape Preston West, Dampier, and Vareenous Island. Officials said the entire Pilbara region remained on high alert as the cyclone neared the coast.
Local conditions in Onslow
In Onslow, conditions were described as relatively calm at the time, with occasional heavy rain squalls and winds gusting to about 40 knots. The system was expected to pass to the north later.
How are local authorities and residents preparing for Cyclone Mitchell’s expected landfall?
