Introduction
Definition: A cyclone is a large-scale atmospheric system characterized by rotating winds around a central low-pressure area.
Weather Impact: Cyclones are often associated with violent storms and adverse weather conditions.
NDMA Characterization: According to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), cyclones feature inward spiraling winds that rotate anticlockwise in the Northern Hemisphere and clockwise in the Southern Hemisphere.
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Types of Cyclones
Classification by NDMA: Cyclones are broadly classified into extratropical cyclones and tropical cyclones.
Extratropical Cyclones
- Occurrence: These cyclones occur outside the tropical regions.
- Alternate Name: Also known as mid-latitude cyclones.
- NOAA Definition: According to the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), extratropical cyclones have cold air at their core and gain energy from the interaction of cold and warm air masses.
- Weather Fronts: These cyclones always feature one or more weather fronts, marking the boundary between different air masses.
- Location: Extratropical cyclones can occur over both land and ocean.
Tropical Cyclones
- Location: Develop in the regions between the Tropics of Capricorn and Cancer.
- Development: Form when thunderstorm activity builds close to the center of circulation, leading to strong winds and rain concentrated near the center.
- Energy Source: The primary energy source is the latent heat released when water vapor evaporates from warm ocean waters and condenses into liquid water.
- Absence of Fronts: Unlike extratropical cyclones, tropical cyclones do not have warm and cold fronts.
Naming Conventions for Cyclones
- Guidelines for Naming: Countries must follow specific guidelines while naming cyclones:
- Neutrality: Names should be neutral concerning politics, religious beliefs, cultures, and gender.
- Sentiments: Names should not hurt the sentiments of any group globally.
- Tone: Names should not be rude or cruel.
- Pronunciation: Names should be short, easy to pronounce, and not offensive.
- Length: Names should be a maximum of eight letters.
- Uniqueness: Names should not be repeated.
- Naming Process: The list of proposed names groups countries alphabetically, and names are assigned to cyclones on a rotating basis, regardless of which country suggested the name.
- Example: Cyclones such as Nisarga (suggested by Bangladesh) affected Maharashtra, Gati (suggested by India) hit Somalia, and Nivar (suggested by Iran) struck Tamil Nadu.
Conclusion
Understanding Cyclones: Knowing the types of cyclones and their characteristics helps in disaster management and preparedness.
Significance of Naming:
Adhering to naming conventions ensures clarity and avoids controversy, aiding in efficient communication and response efforts during cyclonic events.