The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a stern orange warning for the Andaman and Nicobar Islands due to the impending arrival of Cyclonic storm Pabuk. Originating over the Gulf of Thailand, this development has increased the odds of severe weather conditions that could disrupt travel, jeopardize life and property, and require substantial preparedness from the populace. Historically, the only known typhoon to hit Thailand was Typhoon Gay in November 1989. The naming of this disaster was courtesy of Laos.
What is Cyclone Pabuk?
Cyclone Pabuk is a cyclonic storm that originated from the Gulf of Thailand. It poses a significant threat to the archipelago of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, prompting concerned authorities to issue an ‘orange’ warning indicating the need for utmost vigilance, preparation, and readiness to tackle adverse weather conditions. Notably, the path of this storm is reminiscent of Typhoon Gay, the only typhoon ever known to have made landfall in Thailand in November 1989.
Respecting the IMD’s Warning Levels
Recognizing weather warnings issued by the IMD is crucial for safety and disaster management. These warnings come in different color codes tied to the severity of the situation. An ‘orange’ warning, like the one issued for Cyclone Pabuk, means that individuals should ‘be prepared’ for possible bad or extreme weather conditions. This level of alert can lead to disruptions in air and road travel, and there is a reasonable chance of threat to life and property.
Understanding Weather Warnings Through Colours
The IMD uses a colour-coded system for its weather warnings, with each colour representing a specific severity level. In ascending order of severity, these are green (no significant risk), yellow (be aware), orange (be prepared), and red (take action). Each gradient of the warning scale implies relatively worse weather conditions and calls for increasingly prudent measures of safety and preparedness.
| Warning Stage | Colour Code | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Cyclone Alert | Yellow | Be aware of possible severe weather |
| Cyclone Warning | Orange | Be prepared for severe weather |
| Post Landfall Outlook | Red | Take urgent action due to expected extreme weather |
The Significance of Storm Naming
The practice of naming storms, such as Cyclone Pabuk, plays a vital role in raising awareness about impending dangers. Names are easier to remember than numbers or technical terms and have been found to significantly aid in disseminating information to the public. The name ‘Pabuk’ was given by Laos, continuing the tradition of using names to help identify storms swiftly and facilitate effective communication.
