Hurricanes are powerful tropical storms that develop over warm ocean waters. They form when moist air rises from the ocean surface, leading to the creation of a low-pressure system. This system intensifies due to the heat and moisture from the sea, eventually evolving into a rotating storm characterized by strong winds and heavy rainfall.
Yes, the primary difference lies in the region of occurrence.
Naming hurricanes aids in quick identification and effective communication during warnings and media reports. Instead of using technical numbers, a simple name enhances memorability, making it easier for the public to track and respond to alerts.
The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) selects hurricane names. These names are assigned in alphabetical order, alternating between male and female names. The lists are reused every six years unless a storm causes significant destruction.
Names are retired when a storm is so deadly or costly that reusing the name would be deemed insensitive or confusing. For instance, in 2024, names like Beryl, Helene, Milton (Atlantic), and John (Pacific) were retired due to the severe damage they inflicted.
Retired names are replaced with new ones. In 2024, Brianna, Holly, and Miguel were added to the Atlantic list, while Jake took John's place in the Pacific list.
In 2024, hurricane impacts included:
India regularly experiences tropical cyclones, especially in Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal, and Tamil Nadu. Notable recent cyclones include Cyclone Amphan (2020) and Cyclone Mocha (2023). The Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) employs a similar naming system, coordinating with neighboring countries.
Rising sea surface temperatures lead to increased moisture availability in the atmosphere. This results in stronger and more frequent tropical cyclones, particularly those classified as higher categories (Category 3 to 5). The WMO and scientists globally have documented this trend.
India has enhanced its early warning systems and disaster preparedness strategies. Agencies like the IMD, National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), and local governments conduct regular drills, construct cyclone shelters, and issue timely alerts through various platforms.
Q1. What is the difference between a hurricane and a typhoon?
Answer: The difference lies in the location; hurricanes form in the Atlantic and Northeast Pacific, while typhoons develop in the Northwest Pacific.
Q2. Why are hurricane names important?
Answer: They facilitate better communication during warnings, making it easier for the public to remember and respond to alerts instead of using complex numerical designations.
Q3. How often are hurricane names recycled?
Answer: Hurricane names are recycled every six years unless they are retired due to the catastrophic effects associated with a particular storm.
Q4. How does climate change influence hurricane patterns?
Answer: Climate change contributes to rising sea surface temperatures, which lead to increased moisture in the atmosphere, enhancing the strength and frequency of tropical storms.
Q5. What measures does India take for cyclone preparedness?
Answer: India improves its disaster readiness through early warning systems, regular drills, cyclone shelters, and timely alerts issued by various agencies like the IMD and NDMA.
Question 1: What is the primary factor for hurricane formation?
A) Cold ocean waters
B) Warm ocean waters
C) High altitude winds
D) Low pressure systems
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: Which organization is responsible for naming hurricanes?
A) National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
B) World Meteorological Organization
C) International Weather Agency
D) United Nations Climate Change
Correct Answer: B
Question 3: What happens to names of deadly hurricanes?
A) They are reused immediately
B) They are retired
C) They are changed annually
D) They are eliminated from lists
Correct Answer: B
Question 4: Which Indian agency monitors cyclones?
A) Indian Meteorological Department
B) Environmental Protection Agency
C) National Disaster Management Authority
D) Ministry of Earth Sciences
Correct Answer: A
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