A cyclone that previously threatened Australia’s northeast coast is now posing risks to energy and mining operations in the country’s west. The system, known as Narelle, is currently a low-pressure system but is expected to re-intensify into a cyclone as it moves over the South Indian Ocean, tracking parallel to the Pilbara coast later this week.

Narelle’s projected path passes key liquefied natural gas facilities, including Chevron’s Gorgon and Wheatstone projects, with a combined capacity of nearly 30 million tons per year. Analysts said the main risk is operational disruption, including temporary shutdowns and cargo delays.

Ports are taking precautionary measures, with Dampier clearing ships and Port Hedland evacuating. Inland, open-pit iron ore mines and export infrastructure may also be affected, including rail links. Australia, the world’s largest iron ore exporter, remains vulnerable to weather disruptions. Last week, Narelle forced temporary closures of bauxite and manganese mines in northern Australia.