Amphan develops into a super cyclonic storm

On May 18, 2020, Amphan turned into a super cyclonic storm. This is the second super cyclonic storm faced by India since Fani in 1999.

Highlights

The Super Cyclonic storm will hit the coast of Odisha and West Bengal according to the Indian Meteorological Department. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) is preparing evacuation plan and response preparedness.

The storm will cause extensive damage upon landfall. The waves are expected to reach a height of 4 to 6 metres. The warnings about a cyclone are given by the Indian Meteorological Department.

Stages of Cyclone Warning System in India

There are five stages of Cyclone Warning System in India. They are as follows

• Pre-Cyclone Watch
• Cyclone Alert
• Cyclone Warning
• Post Landfall Outlook

Pre-Cyclone Watch

Under this stage, warnings are issued before 72 hours. Th warning under this stage is issued by Director General of Meteorology himself.

Cyclone Alert

This is the second stage in the warning system. The warnings in this stage are issued before 48 hours in advance of the adverse weather over coastal areas.

Cyclone Warning

At this stage, the warnings are issued at least 24 hours in advance of adverse weather conditions.

Post Landfall Outlook

This is issued at least 12 hours in advance of the expected landfall.

Arabian Sea Cyclones are Weak as compared to Bay of Bengal Cyclones

The absence of landmass between the Pacific Ocean and Bay of Bengal, allows the cyclonic winds to move easily into the Bay of Bengal. This makes them stronger than those formed in Arabian Sea.

Month: Current Affairs - May, 2020