Why in News?
Experts have linked the increasing frequency and intensity of cyclones over the Bay of Bengal to a 0.5°C–1°C rise in sea surface temperatures over the past 50 years, driven by global warming, La Niña, and Indian Ocean Dipole effects.
Description:
- Tropical Cyclones:
- Intense low-pressure systems forming over warm ocean waters (SST ≥ 26.5°C).
- Energy derived from latent heat of condensation.
- Classified by IMD as Cyclonic Storm, Severe Cyclonic Storm, Very Severe Cyclonic Storm, etc.
- The Bay of Bengal accounts for ~75% of India’s cyclones, while the Arabian Sea sees fewer but rising numbers recently.
- Conditions Favouring Cyclone Formation:
- Warm sea surface temperature (>26.5°C).
- High humidity and unstable atmosphere.
- Low vertical wind shear.
- Coriolis force (absent near the Equator).
- Pre-existing low-pressure disturbance.
- Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD):
- Difference in SST between western (near Africa) and eastern (near Indonesia) Indian Ocean.
- Positive IOD → Warmer west, cooler east → enhances convection over Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal.
- La Niña Effect:
- Strengthens easterly trade winds and increases moisture convergence over the Bay of Bengal — favourable for cyclone formation.
- Recent Cyclones: Hudhud (2014), Titli (2018), Michaung (2023), Montha (2025) — marked by high intensity and heavy rainfall.
- Mitigation Measures:
- Coastal ecosystem restoration (mangroves, wetlands).
- Improved early warning systems and NDRF preparedness.
- Implementation of National Cyclone Risk Mitigation Project (NCRMP).
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