Classified as an advanced cyclone, Tropical Cyclone Zelia hits Western Australia with strong winds of 270 km/h and heavy rain

Arab Weather - The latest satellite images from the Arab Weather Regional Center monitor the tropical cyclone Zelia, which is now classified as a category three after reaching very advanced stages (category four). It is centered to the northwest of the continent of Western Australia, accompanied by strong winds exceeding 209 km/h. This is the only tropical cyclone in the world that has affected several areas in Australia at the moment.

Tropical cyclone brings record rainfall

The same cyclone, classified as an advanced category, is expected to cause rainfall in northern Western Australia, and as the cyclone reaches land, it may bring record rainfall to some areas, exceeding 300 mm of rain. According to the Australian Meteorological Agency, the powerful cyclone "Zelia" made landfall in Western Australia on Friday, accompanied by strong winds that may reach speeds of 270 km per hour.

The cyclone made landfall at 12:30pm, about 50 kilometres east of Port Hedland, one of the world's busiest ports for iron ore loading. Although the cyclone, which is now a category four storm on a five-level scale, has weakened, the agency has warned of a "dangerous tide" that could affect some coastal areas in the coming hours, with waves likely to cause damage and dangerous flooding in low-lying areas near the coast.

When does hurricane season start in Australia and how long does it last?

The cyclone season in Australia usually runs from November to April, according to the Australian Bureau of Meteorology. During this season, tropical cyclones form and can significantly impact the northern and northeastern coastal areas of the country, especially in the states of Queensland, Cumbria and Northern Australia.

Cyclones are generally characterised by strong winds and heavy rains, and can cause severe flooding and significant damage in affected areas. Cyclones in Australia are classified based on their intensity, ranging from Category 1 (least impactful) to Category 5 (most severe) in accordance with the international standard for classifying cyclone intensity.

Extremely hot weather across Australia

These days, Australia has been experiencing very high temperatures as it is in the hottest month of the year, which is summer. Summer extends from December to February, and is characterized by hot and dry weather in many parts of the country, especially in the interior. Temperatures in major cities such as Perth, Adelaide and Brisbane range between 30-40 degrees Celsius, while in some desert areas it may reach more than 45 degrees Celsius.

The east coast has moderate temperatures and high humidity, which increases the chances of thunderstorms. Summer in Australia also sees an increase in the risk of fires due to drought, and there may be deteriorating weather conditions including severe storms or heavy rain in some areas.

And God knows best.