Changing Cyclone Patterns in the Indian Region Flashcards
How have cyclonic patterns changed in the Indian Ocean in recent years?
There has been an increase in high-intensity storms, off-season cyclones, and unusual cyclone paths.
What is an example of an unusual cyclone path in India?
The 2018 Cyclone Titli followed an unexpected path, moving in a different direction than usual.
What is the primary cause of increasing high-intensity storms in the Indian Ocean?
Rising sea surface temperatures due to global warming.
How does global warming impact tropical cyclone formation?
Warmer ocean temperatures (30-32°C) provide more energy for stronger and more frequent cyclones.
What was the impact of Cyclone Idai in 2019?
It caused devastating destruction in Mozambique, killing over 1,000 people, fueled by rising ocean temperatures.
Why are regions further from the equator now experiencing cyclones?
Warmer ocean temperatures (24-26°C) allow cyclones to form in areas previously too cool.
What global climatic factors influence Indian Ocean cyclone activity?
El Niño, Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD), Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO), and Southern Annular Mode (SAM).
How does the Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) affect cyclones?
A positive IOD leads to warmer waters in the western Indian Ocean, enhancing cyclone formation.
What has changed about cyclones in the Arabian Sea?
More frequent and intense cyclones are forming, unlike before when it had relatively fewer storms.
Why do 50% of cyclones in the Arabian Sea not sustain for long?
The west-central and northern Arabian Sea have colder sea temperatures due to upwelling.
What is the Findlater (Somali) Current’s role in Arabian Sea cyclones?
It causes local upwelling, cooling the sea surface, which can weaken cyclones.
What evidence shows a rise in extremely severe cyclones in the Arabian Sea?
Between 1998-2013, five extremely severe cyclones formed, increasing from historical trends.
What is an example of a strong cyclone in the Arabian Sea?
Cyclone Nilofar (2014), an extremely severe Category 4 storm.
How did Cyclones Chapal and Megh (2015) change Arabian Sea cyclone trends?
They were stronger than usual and formed within one week, showing increased cyclone activity.
What is El Niño Modoki, and how does it affect cyclone formation?
It suppresses cyclones in the Bay of Bengal but increases cyclone activity in the Arabian Sea.
Why is the Bay of Bengal still more cyclone-prone than the Arabian Sea?
It receives warm water from the Pacific, making it a favorable breeding ground for cyclones.
How does climate change affect monsoon and cyclone interactions?
Unpredictable monsoon patterns can lead to more intense cyclones due to excess heat and moisture.
How are Indian coastal states adapting to changing cyclone patterns?
Better early warning systems, improved disaster preparedness, and coastal infrastructure strengthening.
What role does the Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO) play in cyclone activity?
It enhances or suppresses cyclonic activity based on its convective phase.
What future trends are expected for cyclonic patterns in India?
Increased frequency, more severe cyclones, unpredictable movements, and possible year-round activity.
