Cyclone in India: Meaning of Cyclone and Its Impact

Introduction

Definition and Nature of Cyclones

Before knowing Cyclone in India let’s see what is Cyclones. Cyclones are strong natural storms. They begin when warm, moist air rises above warm ocean waters. This rising air creates an area with lower air pressure, like a vacuum, which sets the stage for a cyclone to form. Imagine Cyclone Shaheen as a massive, fast-spinning wind machine. As it spins, it collects moisture from the ocean, leading to heavy rain, strong winds, and flooding. These storms are often found in places like India and nearby countries. Because cyclones can be dangerous, experts closely monitor the weather to predict when and where they might occur. They also help communities prepare for cyclones by creating safe shelters, teaching safety measures, and providing early warnings. So, even though cyclones are powerful, we have ways to keep people safe and minimize their impact.

Cyclones in the Indian Subcontinent

Coastal areas in India frequently experience harmful storms called cyclones, typically during the rainy season. When these cyclones originate in the Bay of Bengal, they can cause significant damage to regions like India, Bangladesh, and Myanmar. To keep people living by the coast safe, there’s a group called the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) that carefully watches these storms. They give early warnings and predict where the storm might go, helping everyone get ready and stay safe.

Types of Cyclones

1.     Tropical Cyclone

A tropical cyclone is a strong storm that forms over warm ocean waters in tropical and subtropical regions.

2.     Polar Cyclone

Polar cyclones, often called polar lows, are smaller-scale cyclonic systems that occur in polar regions, particularly during winter.

3.     Mesocyclone

A mesocyclone is a cyclonic system in severe thunderstorms, mainly in supercell thunderstorms. They are associated with rotating updrafts within thunderstorms and are vital to developing tornadoes. Mesocyclones have a high potential for producing severe weather, including large hail and violent winds.

Meteorologists need to understand these types to make accurate weather forecasts and help communities get ready for possible weather problems.

Recent Cyclone in India: Cyclone Biparjoy

Cyclone Biparjoy struck the Arabian Sea region, affecting Western India from June 6 to June 16, 2023, with some striking characteristics and notable impacts.

Key Details

1. Wind Speed: Cyclone Biparjoy displayed maximum sustained wind speeds of up to 194 km/h, making it a powerful weather event.
2. On Land: As it reached the coast, the cyclone maintained considerable wind speeds of about 180 km/h, resulting in solid and damaging winds in coastal areas.
3. Diameter: The cyclone covered a vast area, with a maximum diameter of 567 km, impacting a broad coastal region.
4. Air Pressure: The air pressure within the cyclone dropped below 945 millibars, indicating its intensity.
5. Saffir-Simpson Scale: Cyclone Biparjoy was classified as a Category 3 cyclone on the Saffir-Simpson scale, signifying its potential for causing significant damage.

Impacted Regions

1. Cyclone Biparjoy hit Western India and had serious effects. On June 16 and 17, it affected about 1.2 million people with winds between 90 and 120 km/h (55-75 mph). This caused some problems:
2. Fatalities and Injuries: The cyclone’s strong winds and heavy rain caused four deaths and five injuries, showing how dangerous it was for people.
3. Property Damage: 2,460 houses were damaged, and 190 were destroyed, leaving many without homes.
4. Humanitarian Impact: The cyclone disrupted the lives of many people, making families move from their homes and requiring quick help to support those in need.

Cyclone Biparjoy serves as a stark reminder of the significant weather-related challenges faced by coastal regions in India. Timely and accurate forecasting and preparedness measures are crucial in minimizing the impact of such cyclonic events and safeguarding the lives and property of affected communities.

Names of Cyclone in India

Let’s explore some notable cyclones and their impacts:

1. Cyclone Amphan:

In May 2020, a super cyclone named Amphan hit, impacting the Indian states of West Bengal and Odisha. Its extremely strong winds and heavy rainfall caused widespread damage to infrastructure, agriculture, and people’s livelihoods.

2. Bhola Cyclone:

Bhola Cyclone in 1970 remains one of the deadliest tropical cyclones ever recorded.

It affected East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) and West Bengal, causing a catastrophic loss of life.

3. Cyclone Tauktae:

Cyclone Tauktae landed on India’s west coast in May 2021, impacting states like Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Kerala.

It led to significant evacuations and damage to coastal areas.

4. 1999 Odisha Cyclone:

The 1999 Odisha Cyclone is infamous for its devastating impact on Odisha. It brought about extensive destruction and led to a significant loss of lives.

5. Cyclone Phailin:

Cyclone Phailin, in 2013, affected Odisha and Andhra Pradesh, resulting in one of India’s largest evacuations.

Timely preparations and evacuations helped minimize the loss of life.

6. Cyclone Hudhud:

Hudhud, in 2014, hit the coast of Andhra Pradesh, causing extensive damage to infrastructure and agriculture.

The affected regions witnessed massive relief and recovery efforts.

7. Cyclone Yaas:

In May 2021, Cyclone Yaas struck the eastern coast of India, impacting West Bengal and Odisha.

It brought heavy rainfall and flooding to the affected areas.

8. Cyclone Matmo-Bulbul:

The combined impact of Cyclone Matmo and Cyclone Bulbul was experienced in November 2019, affecting West Bengal and Bangladesh.

These cyclones resulted in widespread destruction.

9. Cyclone Vardah:

In 2016, Cyclone Vardah made landfall near Chennai, causing damage to property and infrastructure in Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh.

10. Cyclone Kyarr:

Cyclone Kyarr, in 2019, churned in the Arabian Sea, posing a potential threat to the western coast of India.

Fortunately, it weakened without making landfall.

11. Cyclone Nilam:

Nilam hit the southeastern coast of India in 2012, leading to significant rainfall and flooding in Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh.

12. Cyclone Titli:

Cyclone Titli impacted the states of Odisha and Andhra Pradesh in 2018, causing flooding and disruption.

13. Cyclone Aila:

In 2009, Cyclone Aila affected the coastal regions of West Bengal and Bangladesh, causing widespread destruction.

14. Cyclone Ockhi:

Ockhi, in 2017, posed a threat to the western coast of India, affecting states like Kerala and Maharashtra.

15. Cyclone Biparjoy:

As mentioned earlier, Cyclone Biparjoy affected Western India in June 2023, causing damage to property and loss of life.

16. Cyclone Thane:

Cyclone Thane struck the Tamil Nadu and Puducherry coast in 2011, leading to significant damage.

17. Cyclone Komen:

Cyclone Komen hit in 2015, causing extensive flooding in West Bengal, Bangladesh, and Myanmar.

18. Cyclone Jal:

Cyclone Jal, in 2010, affected Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh, leading to flooding and damage to agriculture.

19. Cyclone Mocha:

Mocha Cyclone, in 2006, affected the western coast of India, causing flooding and destruction.

20. Cyclone Laila:

Cyclone Laila landed in Andhra Pradesh in 2010, resulting in heavy rainfall and flooding.

21. Cyclone Onil:

Cyclone Onil, in 2004, affected the west coast of India, leading to coastal inundation and destruction.

How Are Cyclones Named in India

Cyclones in India are named through a well-established and systematic procedure involving international cooperation and meteorological authorities’ contributions. The naming process aims to facilitate communication, reduce confusion, and enhance public awareness during cyclone events.

1. International Collaboration

The naming of cyclones is a collaborative effort on an international scale. The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) is pivotal in coordinating this effort.

2. Alphabetical Listing

Cyclone names are listed alphabetically by country. Each country within a specific region provides a list of words to be used for cyclones that may form within their jurisdiction.

3. Neutral Gender Names

The chosen names are gender-neutral, meaning they don’t favour one gender over another. This approach aims to promote fairness and prevent gender bias.

4. Proposal and Approval

The National Meteorological and Hydrological Services of WMO member countries within a particular region propose a list of cyclone names. These presented lists are then subjected to approval by the respective tropical cyclone regional bodies during their annual or biennial sessions.

By following this procedure, cyclones are assigned easily recognizable and region-specific names. This method helps meteorological authorities and the public communicate more effectively about cyclone forecasts, impacts, and preparedness, ultimately contributing to better disaster management and response efforts.

Also Read :-

Bhuj Earthquake | Gujarat earthquake 2001

Turkey Earthquake 2023: An Overview

The Worst Earthquake in History: A Terrifying Look Back

Strongest Cyclone in India

The Odisha Super Cyclone of 1999

The Odisha Super Cyclone of 1999, often called Cyclone 05B, is one of India’s most powerful cyclones ever recorded. This devastating storm hit the state of Odisha on October 29, 1999, leaving a lasting impact on the region.

Meteorological Data and Impact Assessment

Regarding meteorological data, this cyclone peaked with winds roaring at 160 miles per hour, earning it the title of a “super cyclone.” The storm’s central pressure dropped to 912 millibars, making it exceptionally intense. The cyclone brought about extensive damage, including storm surges reaching nearly 26 feet in certain areas, causing severe flooding and destruction. It impacted more than 15 million people and led to the loss of thousands of lives.

Lessons Learned from Strong Cyclonic Events

The Odisha Super Cyclone was a crucial lesson in disaster management and preparedness. It prompted significant improvements in early warning systems, the construction of cyclone shelters, and community awareness programs. The response to subsequent cyclones, such as Cyclone Phailin in 2013, demonstrated how these measures effectively saved lives.

Conclusion

Cyclones in India have a long and significant history. Every time they occur, they leave a strong impact on the country. The Odisha Super Cyclone in 1999 was a striking example of how destructive these natural disasters can be. However, it also demonstrates how India has become better at dealing with them. Over the years, India has made important improvements in preparing for cyclones. They have established systems to warn people early, educated communities on how to stay safe, and constructed special shelters for protection from cyclones. All these efforts have saved lives and reduced the damage caused by these storms. Although cyclones remain a big challenge, India’s past experiences have made the country more capable of handling them. India is determined to keep enhancing its ability to deal with cyclones and protect its citizens.

FAQs on Cyclone in India