The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has recently announced the formation of a low-pressure system over the East-central Bay of Bengal, which is anticipated to escalate into Cyclone Dana. This cyclone is expected to impact the coasts of Odisha and West Bengal, denoting the importance of understanding the processes behind cyclone formation and naming conventions. Cyclone Dana will be the second cyclone in the North Indian Ocean within a short span, following Cyclone Asna. The naming of cyclones is not merely a matter of convenience; it plays important role in disaster management and public awareness.
What is a Cyclone?
A cyclone is a rapidly rotating storm system characterised by a low-pressure centre, a closed low-level atmospheric circulation, and strong winds. Cyclones can vary in intensity and can lead to severe weather conditions, including heavy rainfall, strong winds, and storm surges. The formation of cyclones typically requires warm ocean waters, moist air, and a conducive atmospheric environment. Interestingly, the word “cyclone” is derived from the Greek word “kyklon,” meaning “moving in a circle.”
Why Name Cyclones?
Naming cyclones serves several practical purposes. It enhances communication among meteorologists, disaster response teams, and the general public. A name is easier to remember than a number or technical designation, which aids in raising awareness and preparedness. For instance, the devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina in the United States in 2005 was attributed to the public’s awareness of the storm’s name, which facilitated evacuation efforts.
Who Names Cyclones?
The naming of cyclones in the North Indian Ocean is overseen by a panel of nations under the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) and the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP). This panel was established in 2000 and initially included Bangladesh, the Maldives, Myanmar, Oman, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. In 2018, the panel expanded to include five additional countries: Iran, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Yemen. Each member country submits a list of names, which are compiled into a rotating list for future cyclones.
How are Cyclone Names Selected?
Countries proposing cyclone names must adhere to specific guidelines. The names should be neutral regarding politics, religion, culture, and gender, ensuring they do not offend any group. Names should be short, easy to pronounce, and no longer than eight letters. Additionally, names must be unique and not reused until all names in a list have been exhausted. For example, the cyclone names are assigned in alphabetical order based on the proposing country, creating a systematic approach to naming.
The Naming Process in Action
Once a cyclone forms, the IMD selects a name from the predetermined list based on the alphabetical order of the countries involved. For instance, the first cyclone after the list was named Nisarga, proposed by Bangladesh. This systematic approach ensures that each cyclone is easily identifiable, which is vital during overlapping weather events. After all names in a column have been used, the next column is initiated, continuing the cycle of naming.
Global Naming Conventions
Other regions worldwide have their own cyclone naming conventions. For example, in the Atlantic Ocean, the National Hurricane Center uses a list of names that rotate every six years. Interestingly, in some regions, such as the Western Pacific, names can be reused if they are not associated with an important disaster. This contrasts with the practice in the North Indian Ocean, where names are permanently retired if a cyclone causes substantial loss of life or damage.
Conclusion
About the process of cyclone naming is vital for effective communication and disaster preparedness. As climate change intensifies weather patterns, the frequency and intensity of cyclones are expected to rise, making it increasingly important for communities to be aware of these naming conventions. The systematic approach not only aids in public awareness but also encourages international cooperation among nations in the face of natural disasters.
