Upgraded Cyclone Heidi headed for WA coast

Tropical Cyclone Heidi has been upgraded to a category two storm and is expected to reach the Pilbara coast of Western Australia late on Wednesday night (WST).

A yellow alert has been issued for people between Pardoo and Whim Creek, including Port Hedland and South Hedland, and residents have been warned to take shelter.

A blue alert remains in place for surrounding areas, including Roebourne, Port Sampson, Karratha and Dampier.

The weather bureau says Cyclone Heidi is estimated to be 140km north northeast of Port Hedland and moving southwest at 15km/h towards the coast.

Destructive winds with gusts up to 155km/h are possible overnight between Whim Creek and Pardoo, the bureau says.

Gales with gusts to 100km/h may also extend west to Dampier overnight and in the adjacent parts of the central Pilbara.

The Port Hedland Airport has been closed and some flights have been cancelled.

Perth Airport recommends passengers check with their airline for the most current information on flights to and from the area.

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