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Home/upsc: cyclone

Mains Answer Writing Latest Questions

Diya Raman
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Diya RamanBegginer
Asked: September 20, 2024In:
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Talk about the socioeconomic effects of cyclones on the infrastructure and coastal communities.

upsc: cyclone
  1. Umang Singh Yadav
    Umang Singh Yadav Expert

    Cyclones unleash catastrophic effects i.e. storm surges, heavy rainfall, strong winds, landslides, flooding, power outages, communication disruptions, infrastructure collapse, agricultural devastation, water contamination, displacement, injury and loss of life. Cyclones have devastating socio economRead more

    Cyclones unleash catastrophic effects i.e. storm surges, heavy rainfall, strong winds, landslides, flooding, power outages, communication disruptions, infrastructure collapse, agricultural devastation, water contamination, displacement, injury and loss of life.

    Cyclones have devastating socio economic impacts on coastal communities and infrastructure – 

    1. Cyclones claim lives and cause injuries, traumatizing families and overwhelming healthcare infrastructure instantly.
    2. Cyclones force mass displacement, migration and relocation, uprooting families and disrupting community stability instantly.
    3. Cyclones inflict lasting psychological trauma and stress on survivors, causing anxiety, fear and PTSD.
    4. Cyclones destroy homes, livelihoods, and assets, leaving families homeless, jobless and economically vulnerable instantly.
    5. Cyclones separate families during evacuations, displacing children, elders and loved ones causing emotional distress.
    6. Cyclones ravage infrastructure, damaging roads, bridges, ports and buildings, disrupting commerce and costing millions.
    7. Cyclones destroy private property, businesses and assets, resulting in significant financial losses and debt.
    8. Cyclones halt businesses, industries, and trade causing revenue loss, supply chain disruptions and unemployment.
    9. Cyclones devastate tourism and fisheries, crippling local economies, losing revenue and jeopardizing livelihoods instantly overseas.
    10. Cyclones exacerbate poverty and unemployment, reducing income sources & straining community resources and services.

     

    Cyclone mitigation strategies include early warnings, evacuation plans and storm resistant infrastructure. Recovery efforts involve debris removal, infrastructure repair, economic support and social services. Reconstruction focuses on resilient buildings, seawalls and sustainable livelihoods.

     

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Rajashree Shirke
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Rajashree ShirkeLearner
Asked: January 18, 2025In:
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Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction  Begin by defining what a thunderstorm is: A thunderstorm is a weather phenomenon characterized by lightning, thunder, and often heavy rainfall. Mention the conditions required for a thunderstorm to form: moisture, rising unstable air, and a lifting ...

upsc: cyclone
  1. Team
    Best Answer
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer A thunderstorm forms when three key ingredients are present: moisture, rising unstable air, and a lifting mechanism. The sun heats the Earth's surface, causing the air above it to warm and rise. As this warm air rises, it carries water vapor upwards. The rising air cools, and the moistuRead more

    Model Answer

    A thunderstorm forms when three key ingredients are present: moisture, rising unstable air, and a lifting mechanism. The sun heats the Earth’s surface, causing the air above it to warm and rise. As this warm air rises, it carries water vapor upwards. The rising air cools, and the moisture condenses, forming clouds. As the storm grows, the cloud extends into cooler, freezing layers of the atmosphere, where ice particles are created. These ice particles collide, generating electric charges, which build up and cause lightning. The lightning creates sound waves, which we hear as thunder.

    Stages in the Lifecycle of a Thunderstorm

    1. Developing Stage: In this stage, warm air rises, forming a cumulus cloud that grows into a towering shape as the updraft continues. This stage generally has little to no rain and occasional lightning.
    2. Mature Stage: The thunderstorm reaches its peak when the updraft feeds the storm and precipitation begins to fall. This creates a downdraft. The downdraft and cool air at the surface form a gust front, which can lead to severe weather conditions like heavy rain, hail, strong winds, and sometimes tornadoes. This is the most intense phase of the storm.
    3. Dissipating Stage: In the final stage, the gust front moves away from the storm, cutting off the warm, moist air that was sustaining it. Precipitation decreases, but lightning can continue. The storm gradually weakens.

    Thunderstorms are most common during the summer months and typically occur in the afternoon and evening. Under the right conditions, they can lead to flash floods due to the intense rainfall.

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Diya Raman
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Diya RamanBegginer
Asked: September 20, 2024In:
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What impact does urbanization have on coastal areas’ susceptibility to cyclones?

upsc: cyclone
  1. Umang Singh Yadav
    Umang Singh Yadav Expert

    Urbanization intensifies disaster vulnerability as rapid growth, inadequate infrastructure and dense populations increase exposure to floods, landslides, storms and earthquakes, threatening lives, livelihoods and economic stability, necessitating proactive resilience measures.India's coastal urbanizRead more

    Urbanization intensifies disaster vulnerability as rapid growth, inadequate infrastructure and dense populations increase exposure to floods, landslides, storms and earthquakes, threatening lives, livelihoods and economic stability, necessitating proactive resilience measures.India’s coastal urbanization exposes 250 million people to cyclone risk, with 12% of population in high risk zones. Since 1970, cyclone related deaths increased by 50%.

    Urbanization in coastal regions increases vulnerability to cyclones through – 

    1. Physical factors including altered coastal geomorphology, destroyed natural barriers (mangroves, dunes), inadequate storm drainage, poorly designed infrastructure and increased exposure due to dense development.
    2. Urbanization in coastal regions increases social vulnerability to cyclones through factors such as population density, poverty, inadequate housing, limited access to emergency services, social inequality and displacement of vulnerable populations, including elderly, children and low income communities.
    3. Infrastructure factors increasing vulnerability to cyclones in coastal regions due to urbanization include inadequate storm drainage, insufficient seawalls, poor building codes, strained utilities and inadequate evacuation routes, exacerbating flood risk, damage and disruption.
    4. Environmental factors including deforestation, wetland destruction, coastal erosion, storm drain congestion and altered water cycles, exacerbating flooding, storm surges and landslides risks.

     

    Mitigation strategies for cyclone vulnerability in coastal urban areas include resilient infrastructure, early warning systems, flood control measures, green buffers, evacuation plans, climate resilient building codes and community education, enhancing preparedness and adaptability.

     

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Saurabh Soni
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Saurabh SoniLearner
Asked: July 6, 2024In:
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Examine the weather patterns related to extratropical cyclones and elaborate on the features that set them apart.

upsc: cyclone
  1. Jayesh Malhotra
    Jayesh Malhotra Begginer

    Extratropical cyclones, often referred to as mid-latitude or frontal cyclones, are a prevalent weather phenomenon occurring mainly in the middle and high latitudes. Forming outside the tropical zones, these cyclones are significant weather systems with vast influences on the climate and weather pattRead more

    Extratropical cyclones, often referred to as mid-latitude or frontal cyclones, are a prevalent weather phenomenon occurring mainly in the middle and high latitudes. Forming outside the tropical zones, these cyclones are significant weather systems with vast influences on the climate and weather patterns of the regions they affect.

    Meteorological Conditions Associated with Extratropical Cyclones

    • Temperature Contrast: They prominently occur where there is a significant temperature contrast, generally where polar and tropical air masses converge. Eg: in the North Atlantic region, the sharp temperature gradients leading to the “Nor’easters” in the northeastern U.S.
    • Frontogenesis: Frontogenesis, a process defining the birth or strengthening of a weather front, plays a pivotal role. During the 1993 “Storm of the Century” in the U.S., frontogenesis was witnessed with a rapid intensification of fronts, bringing about severe snowfalls.
    • Jet Streams: These cyclones often form and intensify near the jet streams, characterized by fast-flowing narrow air currents. Eg: the European windstorm “Kyrill” in 2007, fueled by the jet streams, showcased how these atmospheric rivers can enhance a cyclone’s development.
    • Cold and Warm Fronts: The dynamic interaction between cold and warm fronts leads to the formation of occluded fronts as the cyclone matures. Eg: during the historic “Ash Wednesday Storm” of 1962, which witnessed the merging of such fronts, resulting in extreme weather conditions.
    • Wind Patterns: As these cyclones develop, they induce specific wind patterns with winds spiraling inward and converging at the center. The “Great Appalachian Storm of 1950” in the U.S. showcased this wind pattern, with severe winds wreaking havoc over a large geographical expanse.
    • Rossby Waves: Rossby waves, large waves in the jet stream, significantly influence the lifecycle of extratropical cyclones. For instance, during the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) events, Rossby waves play a crucial role in determining the cyclones’ pathway and intensity.

    Distinctive Characteristics of Extratropical Cyclones

    • Broad Spatial Extent: These cyclones have a substantial spatial presence, often overshadowing their tropical counterparts. Eg: the “Great Storm of 1987” affected a vast area across the UK and France, showcasing the extensive geographical reach of extratropical cyclones. The Spatial Extent of Extratropical Cyclones ranges from 500 kms to 2500 kms.
    • Seasonal Variability: The “Winter of 2013-14” in North America saw a spate of extratropical cyclones, highlighting the seasonal predisposition of these weather events, significantly impacting regions with massive snowfalls and cold waves.
    • Asymmetric Structure: They frequently display an asymmetric structure, having divergent meteorological dynamics on different sides. Eg: the “1993 Superstorm” in the US, where one side experienced heavy snowfall while the other side encountered severe thunderstorms.
    • Variable Precipitation Patterns: They exhibit a diversity in precipitation patterns, encompassing rain, snow, or mixed phases. Eg: the “North American Blizzard of 2009” showcased varying precipitation patterns, including a mix of heavy snowfall and rain across different regions.
    • Complex Lifecycle: It is intricate, passing through stages from inception to occlusion. The series of cyclones impacting the UK in winter 2013-14 witnessed complex life cycles, evolving through various stages, showcasing the complexity in the developmental phases of these cyclones.
    • Impact on Weather: They substantially affect weather patterns, inducing sudden and drastic alterations in weather conditions over expansive areas. The “Derecho of 2020” (USA) brought about significant weather alterations, highlighting the transformative impact of these cyclones.

    Extratropical cyclones are dynamic weather systems which play a pivotal role in shaping the weather and climate of mid and high latitude regions. Understanding the meteorological conditions and distinctive characteristics of these cyclones is vital in weather forecasting and climate studies to mitigate their impacts effectively.

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Smitha Krishnan
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Smitha KrishnanBegginer
Asked: January 28, 2025In:
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Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction (Approx. 2-3 sentences) Purpose: Briefly introduce what cyclones are and the significance of differentiating between temperate and tropical cyclones. Content: Mention that cyclones are destructive weather systems that form in different regions and have distinct characteristics, depending ...

upsc: cyclone
  1. Team
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer Introduction Cyclones are powerful and destructive weather phenomena that vary in terms of formation, characteristics, and impact depending on whether they occur in temperate or tropical regions. Understanding these differences is crucial for preparedness and mitigation strategies. BeloRead more

    Model Answer

    Introduction

    Cyclones are powerful and destructive weather phenomena that vary in terms of formation, characteristics, and impact depending on whether they occur in temperate or tropical regions. Understanding these differences is crucial for preparedness and mitigation strategies. Below, we explore the main distinctions between temperate and tropical cyclones.

    Formation

    Temperate Cyclones:
    Temperate cyclones form over both land and water, typically in middle and high latitudes. They are most commonly associated with winter months and are driven by horizontal temperature contrasts between cold and warm air masses. These cyclones form along frontal boundaries, where these temperature contrasts are most prominent.

    Tropical Cyclones:
    In contrast, tropical cyclones develop over warm ocean waters, typically in the tropics. They are primarily a summer phenomenon and derive their energy from the latent heat of condensation as warm, moist air rises and condenses. Unlike temperate cyclones, tropical cyclones do not require frontal boundaries for formation.

    Characteristics

    Temperate Cyclones:
    These cyclones tend to be larger and have a longer lifespan, often lasting several days. They move from west to east in the Northern Hemisphere and are typically associated with lower wind speeds (usually below 100 mph). A key characteristic of temperate cyclones is the absence of a well-defined.

    Tropical Cyclones:
    Tropical cyclones, on the other hand, are smaller in size but more intense, with wind speeds exceeding 100 mph. They typically move from east to west in the Northern Hemisphere and have a distinct eye at their center. These cyclones have a much shorter lifespan, generally lasting only a few days to a week.

    Impact

    Temperate Cyclones:
    The impact of temperate cyclones tends to be more widespread, affecting larger areas. They bring various forms of precipitation, including snow, sleet, and rain, and can cause flooding, coastal erosion, and high winds.

    Tropical Cyclones:
    Tropical cyclones concentrate their destructive power over smaller regions but are known for bringing intense rainfall, storm surges, and high winds. Their effects are often more devastating in terms of flooding and loss of life, as seen in major storms like Hurricane Katrina and Typhoon Haiyan.

    Conclusion

    While temperate and tropical cyclones share some common features, such as their destructive potential and reliance on atmospheric conditions, their formation, characteristics, and impacts are notably different. These differences are crucial in shaping how communities prepare for and respond to these extreme weather events.

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Diya Raman
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Diya RamanBegginer
Asked: September 20, 2024In:
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Examine the efficiency of early warning systems for responding to and preparing for cyclones.

upsc: cyclone
  1. Umang Singh Yadav
    Umang Singh Yadav Expert

    Early warning systems alert communities of impending cyclones through timely and reliable forecasts , enabling evacuations and preparations to minimize damage.India's early warning systems for cyclones include IMD's Doppler Radar, Satellite Imagery, and Mobile Alerts. Examples - Cyclone Phailin (201Read more

    Early warning systems alert communities of impending cyclones through timely and reliable forecasts , enabling evacuations and preparations to minimize damage.India’s early warning systems for cyclones include IMD’s Doppler Radar, Satellite Imagery, and Mobile Alerts. Examples – Cyclone Phailin (2013) and Fani (2019) saw timely evacuations, minimizing casualties. India’s National Disaster Management Authority’s (NDMA) mobile app and SMS alerts also enhance preparedness.

    Effectiveness of Early Warning System –

    1. Timely alerts from early warning systems enable swift evacuations, preparations and safety measures, minimizing cyclone related casualties and damage through precise forecasts and urgent notifications.
    2. Reduce cyclone related casualties by providing critical lead time for evacuations, shelter seeking and safety measures, saving thousands of lives annually.
    3. Enhance preparedness by triggering proactive measures through evacuations, emergency resource deployment, infrastructure protection and public education, ensuring communities are ready to respond effectively.
    4. Yield economic benefits by minimizing damage to infrastructure, agriculture, and property, reducing loss of livelihoods and lowering post-disaster rehabilitation costs and economic downtime.

     

    Limitations of Early Warning Systems (EWS) in cyclone prone areas include forecasting errors, communication gaps and infrastructure constraints. Technological advancements address these by improved satellite imaging, AI enhanced forecasting, mobile apps, IoT sensors and drone based monitoring enhance accuracy, speed and reach, optimizing cyclone preparedness and response.

     

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Rajashree Shirke
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Rajashree ShirkeLearner
Asked: January 18, 2025In:
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Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction Briefly define the Fujiwhara effect. Mention its significance in the context of cyclonic activity and its growing frequency due to global warming. 2. Explanation of the Fujiwhara Effect Define the Fujiwhara effect as the interaction between two cyclones or ...

upsc: cyclone
  1. Team
    Best Answer
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer The Fujiwhara effect refers to the interaction between two cyclones or hurricanes when they come close enough to spin around a common center, creating a dramatic and intense "dance" between them. This effect occurs when the cyclones are close enough to influence each other’s rotation. ARead more

    Model Answer

    The Fujiwhara effect refers to the interaction between two cyclones or hurricanes when they come close enough to spin around a common center, creating a dramatic and intense “dance” between them. This effect occurs when the cyclones are close enough to influence each other’s rotation. As per the National Weather Service (NWS), these cyclonic interactions are becoming more frequent, largely attributed to global warming, which heats ocean waters and enhances cyclone activity.

    Implications of the Increasing Occurrence of the Fujiwhara Effect on Coastal Regions

    1. Damage to Infrastructure: The Fujiwhara effect can cause significant damage to coastal infrastructure due to powerful winds, storm surges, and flooding. For example, in 2021, the interaction between Cyclone Seroja and Cyclone Odette in the Indian Ocean led to widespread infrastructure damage in Australia.
    2. Threat to Life: Stronger storms resulting from the Fujiwhara effect bring more powerful winds, heavier rainfall, and larger storm surges, increasing the risk of fatalities. The 2022 Fujiwhara interaction of Typhoon Hinnamnor and Tropical Storm Gardo in the western Pacific Ocean resulted in fatalities in South Korea, primarily from drowning.
    3. Loss of Livelihood: In rare cases, when two cyclones merge, they can form a mega-cyclone capable of devastating coastal economies, especially in agriculture and tourism. For instance, Superstorm Sandy impacted the livelihoods of many people in the U.S. due to its storm surges and extensive flooding.
    4. Ecosystem Disruption: The Fujiwhara effect can also disrupt coastal ecosystems by causing stronger winds and larger waves, leading to physical damage to mangrove forests, coral reefs, and estuary habitats, all of which are crucial to the local biodiversity and economy.
    5. Forced Migration: The increasing frequency of the Fujiwhara effect could lead to forced migration in vulnerable coastal areas, contributing to internal migration challenges and overwhelming local infrastructure.

    Given its unpredictable nature, it is essential to enhance disaster preparedness and develop effective early warning systems to mitigate risks associated with the Fujiwhara effect.

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Diya Raman
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Diya RamanBegginer
Asked: September 20, 2024In:
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Talk about how the changing climate is affecting the frequency and patterns of cyclones.

upsc: cyclone
  1. Avani Mohan
    Avani Mohan Learner

    Introduction: Climate change has emerged as a critical factor influencing cyclone patterns and frequency globally. Rising global temperatures, warming oceans, and changing atmospheric conditions are contributing to shifts in the intensity, frequency, and geographical distribution of cyclones, posingRead more

    Introduction:

    Climate change has emerged as a critical factor influencing cyclone patterns and frequency globally. Rising global temperatures, warming oceans, and changing atmospheric conditions are contributing to shifts in the intensity, frequency, and geographical distribution of cyclones, posing new challenges for disaster management and coastal communities.

    Impact of Climate Change on Cyclone Patterns

    1. Increased Sea Surface Temperatures:
      • Cyclones derive their energy from warm ocean waters. As global temperatures rise, sea surface temperatures (SST) increase, providing more heat and moisture to fuel cyclone formation and intensification.
      • Recent Example: In 2023, Cyclone Biparjoy in the Arabian Sea intensified rapidly due to abnormally high SST, demonstrating the impact of warming oceans on cyclone behavior.
    2. Higher Frequency of Intense Cyclones:
      • While the overall number of cyclones may not have significantly increased, the proportion of intense cyclones (Category 4 and 5) has risen. Warmer oceans provide more energy, leading to stronger cyclones with higher wind speeds and heavier rainfall.
      • Recent Example: Cyclone Amphan (2020) in the Bay of Bengal rapidly escalated into a super cyclone due to favorable climate conditions, including high SST and low wind shear.
    3. Changes in Cyclone Tracks:
      • Climate change is also altering cyclone tracks, with more cyclones forming in unusual regions or deviating from traditional paths. This poses a greater risk to previously unaffected or less-prepared areas.
      • Recent Example: The increasing number of cyclones in the Arabian Sea, such as Cyclone Tauktae (2021), indicates a shift in cyclone activity due to warming waters in the region, which historically witnessed fewer cyclones than the Bay of Bengal.

    Impact of Climate Change on Cyclone Frequency

    1. Fewer, But More Destructive Cyclones:
      • Some climate models suggest that while the frequency of cyclones may not increase significantly, those that do form will be more destructive due to stronger winds, heavier rainfall, and higher storm surges.
      • Recent Example: Cyclone Fani (2019) was one of the most powerful storms to hit Odisha in decades, and its strength was attributed to the warming of the Bay of Bengal, which fueled its rapid intensification.
    2. Longer Cyclone Seasons:
      • Climate change is extending the duration of cyclone seasons, with cyclones forming earlier or later than usual. This increases the window of vulnerability for coastal regions, making disaster management more complex.
      • Recent Example: Cyclone Yaas (2021) hit India towards the end of May, unusually close to the onset of the monsoon season, highlighting the extended cyclone activity period.
    3. Rising Sea Levels and Cyclone Intensity:
      • Rising sea levels due to melting polar ice caps and thermal expansion amplify the destructive potential of cyclones by increasing the height of storm surges. This leads to more widespread coastal flooding, even from less intense cyclones.
      • Recent Example: The storm surges during Cyclone Amphan (2020) caused widespread flooding in the Sundarbans, where rising sea levels exacerbated the extent of the damage.

    Scientific Consensus and Predictions

    1. IPCC Reports on Cyclones:
      • The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) in its reports highlights that tropical cyclones are likely to become more intense in the future due to rising global temperatures and changing oceanic conditions.
      • Recent Example: The IPCC’s Sixth Assessment Report (2021) indicates that the frequency of very severe cyclonic storms (VSCS) is projected to increase in the North Indian Ocean, a direct consequence of rising SST.
    2. Regional Variations in Cyclone Patterns:
      • Climate change affects different regions in varied ways. The North Indian Ocean is witnessing more frequent and intense cyclones, while other regions may experience fewer storms but with higher intensities.
      • Recent Example: Cyclones like Tauktae and Yaas in 2021 highlight how warming seas in both the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal are creating conditions favorable for more destructive storms.

    Conclusion:

    Climate change is fundamentally altering cyclone patterns and frequency, with cyclones becoming more intense, longer-lasting, and affecting new regions. Governments and communities must adapt to these changing patterns by enhancing early warning systems, resilient infrastructure, and disaster preparedness to mitigate the impacts of these climate-driven events. Continued global efforts to limit global warming are essential to prevent further escalation of cyclonic activity and its associated risks.

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Diya Raman
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Diya RamanBegginer
Asked: September 20, 2024In:
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What role do weather patterns have in the development and strength of cyclones?

upsc: cyclone
  1. Avani Mohan
    Avani Mohan Learner

    Introduction: Cyclones are intense circular storms that originate over warm tropical oceans and are characterized by low pressure at the center, strong winds, and heavy rainfall. The formation and intensity of cyclones are influenced by several climatic factors such as sea surface temperature, atmosRead more

    Introduction:

    Cyclones are intense circular storms that originate over warm tropical oceans and are characterized by low pressure at the center, strong winds, and heavy rainfall. The formation and intensity of cyclones are influenced by several climatic factors such as sea surface temperature, atmospheric moisture, and wind patterns.

    Factors Contributing to Cyclone Formation

    1. Warm Sea Surface Temperature (SST):
      • Cyclones typically form in tropical regions where sea surface temperatures exceed 26.5°C. Warm water provides the necessary heat and moisture, which leads to the formation of convective clouds and the development of a low-pressure system.
      • Recent Example: The rise in sea surface temperatures due to climate change is linked to an increase in the intensity of cyclones. In 2023, Cyclone Biparjoy in the Arabian Sea intensified rapidly due to abnormally high SST.
    2. Atmospheric Moisture:
      • High levels of moisture in the atmosphere, especially in the middle and upper troposphere, contribute to cyclone development by fueling convection. This moisture is crucial for the condensation process, which releases latent heat and powers the cyclone.
      • Recent Example: The Indian Ocean witnessed more intense cyclones in recent years due to enhanced moisture levels, particularly during the post-monsoon period.
    3. Coriolis Force:
      • The Coriolis force, caused by the Earth’s rotation, helps cyclones spin and maintain their structure. The force is weakest at the equator and strengthens as one moves toward the poles, which is why cyclones do not form near the equator.
    4. Low Wind Shear:
      • Low vertical wind shear (difference in wind speed and direction with height) allows cyclones to grow. High wind shear can disrupt cyclone formation by dispersing the heat and moisture required for intensification.
      • Recent Example: Cyclone Fani (2019), which struck India, was able to sustain its intensity because of favorable low wind shear conditions in the Bay of Bengal.
    5. Pre-existing Disturbance:
      • A low-pressure area or tropical disturbance is necessary to kick-start the formation of a cyclone. Without an initial disturbance, cyclonic activity cannot begin.

    Climatic Conditions and Cyclone Intensity

    1. Ocean Heat Content:
      • The deeper the layer of warm water, the more energy is available for cyclones to intensify. This is referred to as ocean heat content (OHC). Higher OHC results in stronger cyclones with greater intensity and destructive potential.
      • Recent Example: Cyclone Tauktae (2021) rapidly intensified due to extremely high ocean heat content in the Arabian Sea, which has been linked to global warming.
    2. Rising Sea Levels:
      • Rising sea levels, caused by melting ice caps and thermal expansion, increase the destructiveness of storm surges associated with cyclones. Higher storm surges lead to more coastal flooding and damage.
      • Recent Example: During Cyclone Amphan (2020), higher sea levels along the Bay of Bengal’s coastline exacerbated flooding in eastern India and Bangladesh.
    3. Climate Change and Intensification:
      • Climate change is leading to more frequent and intense cyclones due to rising global temperatures and increasing sea surface temperatures. Studies indicate that the proportion of very severe cyclonic storms (VSCS) has increased in recent decades.
      • Recent Example: The 2020 cyclone season in the North Indian Ocean was particularly severe, with multiple intense cyclones like Amphan and Nivar, attributed to warming oceans and altered wind patterns.

    Conclusion:

    The interplay between oceanic and atmospheric conditions largely determines the formation and intensity of cyclones. With climate change altering many of these factors, cyclones are becoming more frequent and intense, posing increasing challenges for coastal communities. Effective mitigation and adaptation strategies are crucial to minimize the impact of these climate-driven disasters.

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Rajashree Shirke
  • 0
Rajashree ShirkeLearner
Asked: January 17, 2025In:
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Roadmap for Answer Writing 1. Introduction Briefly introduce cyclones as natural phenomena caused by atmospheric disturbances around low-pressure areas. Mention that while cyclones are often associated with destruction, they also provide several environmental benefits. Set the context of discussing the positive environmental impacts of ...

upsc: cyclone
  1. Team
    Best Answer
    Team Supreme

    Model Answer Cyclones, despite their destructive power, have several beneficial environmental effects that contribute to ecosystem balance and the well-being of geographical regions. 1. Rainfall in Drought-Prone Areas Tropical cyclones are efficient at generating rainfall, which can relieve droughtRead more

    Model Answer

    Cyclones, despite their destructive power, have several beneficial environmental effects that contribute to ecosystem balance and the well-being of geographical regions.

    1. Rainfall in Drought-Prone Areas

    Tropical cyclones are efficient at generating rainfall, which can relieve drought conditions. For example, Tropical Storm Debby helped eliminate a drought in the southern United States, bringing much-needed water to parched areas.

    2. Red Tide and Bacterial Disruption

    Cyclones break up harmful bacteria and red tide through strong winds and waves that mix ocean waters. This oxygenates the surface waters, enabling marine life to return. A notable example is the disruption of red tide along the Gulf Coast of the USA.

    3. Global Heat Balance

    Cyclones help regulate the Earth’s climate by moving warm tropical air to mid-latitudes and polar regions, contributing to the global heat balance. After Hurricane Blas, cooler waters were left behind in the Eastern Pacific, stabilizing the region’s temperature.

    4. Climate Change Mitigation and Mangrove Growth

    Cyclones also enhance the growth of mangroves by providing more nutrients and freshwater, aiding carbon sequestration. In India, tropical storms have positively impacted mangrove ecosystems by boosting their ability to fix carbon dioxide.

    5. Replenishment of Inland Plant Life

    Cyclonic winds and rainfall disperse seeds and nutrients inland, facilitating plant regeneration. This supports biodiversity and aids in restoring ecosystems disturbed by urbanization. For instance, hurricanes have contributed to the growth of tropical hardwood hammocks in South Florida.

    6. Recharge of Groundwater Aquifers

    The intense rainfall from cyclones can recharge groundwater aquifers in arid regions. Cyclones have helped replenish aquifers in areas like Chamarajanagar district of Karnataka, India.

    7. Ecological Succession

    Cyclones reset ecosystems by defoliating mature trees, allowing sunlight to reach the understory. This fosters the growth of shade-intolerant species, contributing to ecological succession and biodiversity.

    In conclusion, while cyclones can cause widespread damage, their ecological benefits are significant, fostering biodiversity, climate regulation, and resource replenishment across ecosystems.

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