Towns face flood threat after escaping worst of cyclone

Cyclone Zelia uprooted trees in Port Hedland, damaged roads and buildings but spared infrastructure. (HANDOUT/TRACEY HEIMBERGER)

Communities in the path of a devastating cyclone are counting their lucky stars after emerging largely unscathed.

But rising floodwaters triggered by the cyclone's heavy rainfall are expected to pose a danger in northwest Australia in the coming days.