The Pilbara Ports Authority took decisive action late Saturday by closing the Ports of Dampier, Ashburton, Varanus Island, and Cape Preston West as Tropical Cyclone Sean formed off the coast of Western Australia’s iron ore-rich region. The tropical low-pressure system, already causing heavy rain in the area, is predicted to intensify to potentially reach category 3 cyclone strength by Monday.

The Australian Bureau of Meteorology issued a statement warning of severe thunderstorms and destructive wind gusts of up to 150 kilometers per hour over offshore island communities. The Ports Authority urged recreational vessel owners to secure their vessels for cyclonic conditions.

Port Hedland, Australia’s largest iron ore export hub, also shut down operations on Saturday, with all bulk carriers instructed to vacate the area by 6 p.m. local time. The closure affects major mining companies such as BHP Group, Rio Tinto Group, and Fortescue Ltd.

As Tropical Cyclone Sean continues its westward trajectory parallel to Western Australia’s northern coast, a storm tide is expected between Port Hedland and Exmouth, potentially causing minor flooding along the coastline during high tides on Sunday and Monday.

The Bureau of Meteorology advised residents in flood-prone areas to take necessary precautions to protect their properties and assist neighbors. While the cyclone is forecast to stay offshore, increased rainfall is expected near the Pilbara coast and western Kimberley regions, with potential daily totals of 50-100 millimeters through Monday.

Travel disruptions are anticipated due to flooding, especially along the West Kimberley and Pilbara coastal areas, including the Minilya-Exmouth Road, from late Sunday onwards.