Severe cyclone set to strike mineral hub in western Oz

A severe tropical cyclone was rapidly building strength off Australia's minerals-rich west coast yesterday, whipping up destructive winds and forcing the closure of a global iron ore-shipping hub.

Cyclone Zelia, yesterday classified as a category five system - the strongest on the scale - was expected making landfall this afternoon near Port Hedland, about 17 hours' drive north of state capital Perth, before tracking inland across sparsely populated mining and cattle country.

It may be the strongest cyclone to hit the region since 2007.

Port Hedland, one of the world's largest iron ore loading ports and located in the remote Pilbara region, has cleared vessels and shut down in anticipation.

Forecasters said the cyclone would bring "damaging and destructive winds" as strong as 320 kilometers an hour near the center.

Emergency Services Western Australia urged residents to tie down trampolines and board up exposed windows.

"There is a possible threat to lives and homes," authorities said.

The northwest coast of Western Australia holds significant deposits of iron ore, copper and gold, and is home to some of Australia's largest mining operations.

Agencies