Andhra Pradesh and Odisha Prepare for a Very Severe Cyclonic Storm as IMD Issues Alerts

Context

A well marked low pressure system over the Bay of Bengal is likely to intensify into a very severe cyclonic storm. In response to the developing threat, the governments of Andhra Pradesh and Odisha have strengthened their disaster preparedness and precautionary arrangements.

Key Highlights

• The low pressure system over the Bay of Bengal is expected to develop into a depression and subsequently intensify into a very severe cyclonic storm.
• The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecast wind speeds of 115 – 125 kmph, with gusts potentially reaching 140 kmph.
• Coastal districts of Andhra Pradesh and Odisha are likely to witness heavy rainfall, strong winds and rough sea conditions.
• Disaster response teams have been deployed, red alerts have been issued and fishermen have been advised to refrain from venturing into the sea.
• State administrations have initiated evacuation and other precautionary measures to safeguard vulnerable coastal populations and reduce the risk of casualties.

Key Concepts

• Tropical Cyclone: An intense low pressure weather system that develops over warm tropical oceans and is characterised by strong winds, heavy rainfall and organised cloud formations.
• Conditions for Cyclone Formation: Cyclone development generally requires warm sea surface temperatures, adequate Coriolis force, atmospheric instability and low vertical wind shear.
• Bay of Bengal: The Bay of Bengal is more prone to cyclonic activity than the Arabian Sea because of favourable oceanic and atmospheric conditions that support cyclone formation and intensification.
• Disaster Management Act, 2005: It establishes the institutional framework for disaster preparedness, mitigation, response and recovery in India through the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), State Disaster Management Authorities (SDMAs) and District Disaster Management Authorities (DDMAs).

Way Forward

• Strengthen last mile connectivity of early warning systems to ensure timely communication of cyclone alerts to vulnerable communities.
• Improve evacuation planning and expand cyclone resilient infrastructure in vulnerable coastal regions.
• Promote community based disaster preparedness through awareness programmes, mock drills and local participation.
• Integrate climate adaptation measures into coastal development planning to minimise long term disaster risks.