Severe TC George was both very intense and physically large. During the event, gales were reported on or near the coast as far north as the Northern Territory border on Sunday 4 March as the cyclone moved across from the NT, and as far west as Karratha on Thursday 8 March. The cyclone intensified to a Category 4 system as it approached the coast, but post-analysis may indicate intensity of Category 5 at landfall. The wind impact was greatest between Wallal and Whim Creek with a mean wind of 195km/h (equivalent to gusts of 275 km/h) being recorded offshore at Bedout Island. At Port Hedland Airport, gusts of 154km/h were recorded around 10:30pm prior to equipment failure. It is likely that stronger winds were experienced around midnight, on the edge of the very destructive core.
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TC George produced large amounts of rainfall in the Northern Kimberley and the Northern Territory earlier in its lifecycle, before moving offshore and intensifying into a significant cyclone. Upon approaching the Pilbara coast, substantial falls occurred, however the lack of previous rainfall limited the potential for flooding. No significant flooding was recorded.
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Port Hedland escaped direct impact from storm surge as the cyclone passed to the east of the town.
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Reported impacts include three fatalities and numerous injuries at mining camps south of Port Hedland. Considerable damage was reported from Port Hedland with at least 10 houses losing roofs, despite solid construction practices in the Region. The Bureau's Port Hedland radar dome was damaged.
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Tropical Cyclone George was the most destructive cyclone to affect Port Hedland since TC Joan in 1975.
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