By Paul-Alain Hunt
Jan 17, 2025 (Bloomberg) – Australia’s largest iron ore export hub, Port Hedland, has been closed as a tropical cyclone develops offshore the Pilbara region of Western Australia state.

Introduction

The maritime industry is facing a significant challenge as tropical cyclones threaten key export hubs. Port Hedland, Australia’s largest iron ore export hub, has been closed due to an impending cyclone, highlighting the vulnerability of maritime operations to severe weather conditions.

Port Closure and Impact

The Pilbara Ports Authority ordered all bulk carriers to leave Port Hedland by 6 p.m. local time. Two tropical lows offshore are expected to merge into a cyclone, bringing severe rain to the region. Port procedures mandate that only essential personnel remain onsite during such events.

Key Players and Export Volumes

Port Hedland handles vast volumes of iron ore from major miners including:

• BHP Group
• Rio Tinto Group
• Fortescue Ltd

In December, Port Hedland’s iron ore exports fell to 47.614 million tons from 48.755 million tons in November, indicating the potential impact of such disruptions on export volumes.

Cyclone Warning and Regional Impact

The Australian Bureau of Meteorology issued a cyclone warning, expecting it to form by Sunday and impact:

• Port Hedland
• Dampier region, home to another iron ore export port
• Karratha, where Woodside Energy Group Ltd. operates a liquefied natural gas plant

Conclusion

The closure of Port Hedland due to the developing cyclone underscores the maritime industry’s susceptibility to weather events. Ensuring the safety of operations and personnel is paramount, as is understanding the broader impact on iron ore exports and related industries.

Sources:

• Australia Shuts Its Biggest Iron Ore Port on Cyclone Threat
• Australia Shuts Its Biggest Iron Ore Port On Cyclone Threat
• Australia Shuts Its Biggest Iron Ore Port on Cyclone Threat