The Bay of Bengal is currently witnessing an intensification of a deep depression into a cyclonic storm expected to strike the coasts of Tamil Nadu. The storm, named Gaja, signifies an elephant in Sanskrit, a name offered by Sri Lanka. This cyclonic activity follows on the heels of Cyclone Titli which recently wreaked havoc in Odisha and Andhra Pradesh, making it the second such storm to hit the coastal area within a month.
The Journey of Gaja
The sea voyage for Gaja is set to be extensive, coupled with warm sea surface temperatures and low vertical wind shear. Besides these factors, the Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO) is also positioned favourably. These conditions cumulatively contribute to strengthening the system.
Understanding Madden-Julian Oscillation
The Madden-Julian Oscillation is a significant variation in tropical circulation and rainfall that travels eastwards along the equator, encircling the entire globe in an average span of 30–60 days. It is not a static entity and represents a dynamic complex of wind, cloud, and pressure that yields rainfall as it navigates across the equator.
This phenomenon was identified and named after scientists Roland Madden and Paul Julian in 1971. During its active phase, the MJO results in above-average rainfall for a particular season, while conversely, during its suppressed phase, the areas receive less than average rainfall.
Though the impact of the MJO is mainly observed in the tropical region, between 30 degrees North and South of the equator, mid-latitude regions in both hemispheres also experience its effects.
Some Quick Facts about Madden-Julian Oscillation
| Fact | Description |
|---|---|
| Name Origin | Named after scientists Roland Madden and Paul Julian |
| Average Cyclone Duration | 30-60 days |
| Main Impact Area | Tropical regions (30 degrees North and South of the equator) |
| Additional Impact Areas | Mid-latitude regions in both hemispheres |
| Effect on Rainfall | Above-average rainfall in active phase, below-average rainfall in suppressed phase |
Gaja: The Second Cyclonic Storm in a Month
Following the destruction caused by Cyclone Titli in Odisha and Andhra Pradesh, Gaja is anticipated as the second cyclone to hit the coastal region in a month. With the favourable conditions of warm sea surface temperatures, low vertical wind shear, and the alignment of the MJO, Gaja is expected to manifest impressive strength as it approaches the coasts of Tamil Nadu.
