Free Republic

EVACUATIONS have begun in Western Australia's Pilbara region, key ports are closed and mining operations are shutting down as Cyclone Clare bears down on the state's northwest coast. The category-three cyclone is expected to intensify before it hits the coast between Dampier and Karratha tonight. State Emergency Services (SES) spokeswoman Neta Gill said officers had started doorknocking low-lying homes in Karratha and Wickham, urging people to evacuate to emergency centres. "It is a precaution because the cyclone looks like crossing at high tide later today," she said. Dampier port harbourmaster Vic Justice said final preparations were underway ahead of the...