Ports of Ashburton, Cape Preston West, Dampier, Port Hedland and Varanus Island are closed.
Tropical Cyclone Mitchell (21U) 05:00 AWST 7/02/2026
Pilbara Ports has closed the Ports of Ashburton, Cape Preston West, Dampier, Port Hedland and Varanus Island.
As per the Bureau of Meteorology update at 05:00 AWST on Saturday 7 February 2026, Tropical Cyclone Mitchell (21U) lies to the north of Port Hedland. Conditions are favourable for further development into a category 2 system later today.
Tropical Cyclone Mitchell is moving to the west southwest and is expected to remain off the coast during today and Sunday morning. It will most likely begin to make a gradual turn to the southwest and then south from tonight, and in doing so move closer to the coast.
All berths and inner anchorages have been cleared at the Port of Port Hedland.
All berths and anchorages have been cleared at Ports of Ashburton, Cape Preston West, Dampier and Varanus Island.
Pilbara Ports will issue its next update for the Ports of Ashburton, Cape Preston West, Dampier, Port Hedland and Varanus Island once they are safe to reopen.
For the latest cyclone warnings visit www.bom.gov.au/cyclone.
For specific information regarding your location, please refer to DFES emergency alerts website.
The Port of Cape Preston West has been earmarked as the location for a new multi-user port for the export of salt and other bulk minerals.
The Port of Cape Preston West is declared on 2nd December 2022 through the WA Gazette SL 2022/205.
Pilbara Ports awards contract for the design and construction of the Dampier Link Bridge.
Pilbara Ports delivered a total monthly throughput of 71.2 million tonnes (Mt) for December 2025.
Pilbara Ports delivered a total monthly throughput of 65.1 million tonnes (Mt) for November 2025.
Final stage of a revetment upgrade project at the Port of Port Hedland commences.
Our people are the key to Pilbara Ports current and future success. Pilbara Ports is proud of the talent and diversity of our people.
We seek people who strive for excellence in all they do, and seek out opportunities for growth and development. Explore our opportunities and discover what it's like to work in the Pilbara below.
See current vacancies
Living in the Pilbara