Tropical cyclones, such as the recent “Phailin” that struck the east coast of India, are named through a systematic process adopted by various meteorological agencies worldwide. The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) oversees this naming convention to ensure consistency and clarity in communication. Names are typically chosen from predetermined lists specific to each ocean basin, with different regions having their own naming systems. Names are often culturally relevant and are alternated between male and female names to avoid gender bias. This standardized approach aids in efficient tracking and dissemination of information, enhancing public awareness and preparedness for these potentially devastating natural phenomena.
Tags: Important Geophysical Phenomenon.
Decoding the Question:
- In Introduction, try to define cyclones briefly.
- In Body, discuss how tropical cyclones are named across the world.
- Conclude the answer with some relatable facts on tropical cyclones and “Phailin”.
Answer:
A cyclone is a weather condition caused by various factors like wind speed, wind direction, temperature, and humidity. A tropical cyclone or hurricane is like a heat engine energized by the release of latent heat due to the condensation of moisture that the wind gathers after moving over the oceans and seas. Thus, it provides a smashing impact on coastal regions, not in the inner part of the continent.
Naming of the Tropical Cyclones:
- The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) started the tropical cyclone naming system in 2000. Tropical cyclones are named to provide ease of communication between forecasters and the public regarding forecasts, watches, and warnings.
- The Cyclones worldwide are named by 9 regions — North Atlantic, Eastern North Pacific, Central North Pacific, Western North Pacific, North Indian Ocean, South West Indian Ocean, Australian, Southern Pacific, South Atlantic. Cyclones in the North Indian Ocean basin are named by the Indian Meteorological Department and the first tropical cyclone was named in 2004 as Onil (given by Bangladesh).
- Eight north Indian Ocean countries — Bangladesh, India, the Maldives, Myanmar, Oman, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Thailand, gave eight names each which was combined into a list of 64 names. One name from each country is picked in an order to name the cyclones.
- The storm Mora that caused severe flooding across Northeast India in May was named by Thailand. Mora is the name of one of the healing stones and means star of the sea. The name ‘Phailin’ was given by Thailand.
- In other parts of the world, a similar roaster is followed as well. In the Atlantic region, the US navy used to name the cyclones with the names of their wives, girlfriends, infamous politicians, etc. Currently, they have a list of designated names to follow from.
If any cyclone causes severe damages, then the name given to it, is not used again in lieu of public sentiments. Example: Katrina. Usually, short names are preferred for better communication and understanding while naming the tropical cyclones.
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