Cyclone Dana Expected to Form in Bay of Bengal
A new cyclone is expected to form in the Bay of Bengal. It will be named ‘Dana’, which means a beautiful, precious pearl in Arabic. This name was proposed by Qatar. The cyclone is predicted to intensify within the next 24 hours.
Cyclone Naming Process
Since 2004, the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) has managed cyclone naming in the North Indian Ocean. Member countries include Bangladesh, Iran, Maldives, Myanmar, Oman, Pakistan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka, Thailand, UAE, and Yemen. Each country suggests four names. When a cyclone forms, it is named sequentially from the list. Once a name is used, it is retired and not repeated.
About Low-Pressure Areas
A low-pressure area forms over the sea when air pressure drops. This causes winds from surrounding areas to converge. In the Northern Hemisphere, these winds rotate anti-clockwise. The North Indian Ocean is part of this hemisphere.
Development into a Cyclone
As a low-pressure area grows in size and strength, it can develop into a depression. If it continues to intensify, it becomes a cyclone. Cyclones can cause weather events, including storm surges as they approach land.
Types of Cyclones
Cyclones, hurricanes, and typhoons are all the same weather phenomenon. The difference lies in their location.
- Hurricanes occur in the North Atlantic and Northeast Pacific.
- Typhoons form in the Northwest Pacific Ocean.
- Cyclones are found in the South Pacific and Indian Oceans.
Future Cyclone Names
Following Dana, the next cyclones will be named Fengal (Saudi Arabia), Shakhti (Sri Lanka), and Montha (Thailand). The naming continues in this order until all names are used. New lists will then be proposed by member countries.
Impact of Cyclones
Cyclones can lead to severe weather conditions. They can cause heavy rainfall, strong winds, and flooding. Coastal areas are particularly vulnerable to storm surges, which can result in damage.
Monitoring and Preparedness
Meteorological agencies closely monitor developing cyclones. Early warnings are crucial for safety. Residents in affected areas are advised to stay informed and prepare for potential impacts.
Month: Current Affairs - October, 2024
Category: Environment Current Affairs