Recent occurrences of “Kallakkadal” swells along the coasts of Kerala and Tamil Nadu have been linked to powerful storms situated 10,000 km away in the South Atlantic. These swells, often termed 'stealthy sea', refer to waves that form without wind, typically emerging before the onset of the monsoon season.
The unpredictable nature of these swells poses significant risks, as they can lead to considerable coastal erosion and damage to structures when they surge unexpectedly and crash violently on the shore. Scientists have traced the origins of these events back to intense storms in the South Atlantic, where waves have reached heights of 10 to 15 meters.
This year, the South Atlantic has exhibited unusual storm activity, raising concerns about changing storm patterns in the southernmost oceans of our planet. As the intensity and frequency of storms increase, there is an urgent need for enhanced compliance with weather forecasts and improved last-mile communication of warnings.
Kallakkadal, or 'stealthy sea', refers to specific swell surge events characterized by waves that develop without the influence of wind. These swells typically arise before the monsoon season and can have dire consequences for coastal regions.
The driving force behind these swells is intense storm activity in the South Atlantic. These storms can generate waves as high as 10 to 15 meters, which travel vast distances across the ocean, ultimately impacting the shores of Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
The unpredictability of Kallakkadal swells lies in their ability to grow suddenly and crash onto the shore without any prior warning. This erratic behavior makes them particularly dangerous for coastal communities.
Kallakkadal swells can lead to substantial erosion along coastlines and cause severe damage to coastal infrastructure. The violent nature of these waves necessitates a proactive approach to coastal management.
Recent changes in storm trends in the South Atlantic, where storms are becoming increasingly severe, have contributed to the rising frequency and intensity of Kallakkadal events. This shift underscores the need for comprehensive research and preparedness strategies.
To mitigate the adverse effects of Kallakkadal swells, scientists advocate for better adherence to weather forecasts and improved last-mile dissemination of warnings. This will help coastal communities prepare and respond effectively to these unpredictable events.
Q1. What is “Kallakkadal”?
Answer: “Kallakkadal” or ‘stealthy sea’ refers to swell surge events characterized by waves without wind, typically occurring before the monsoon season.
Q2. What causes these swells?
Answer: These swells are caused by intense storms in the South Atlantic that generate waves as high as 10-15 meters, traveling across the ocean to impact the shores of Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
Q3. Why are these swells unpredictable?
Answer: The swells can suddenly grow and crash violently on the shore without prior warning, making them unpredictable and dangerous for coastal areas.
Q4. What are the effects of “Kallakkadal”?
Answer: “Kallakkadal” can cause significant erosion and damage to coastal structures due to the violent nature of the waves, impacting local communities.
Q5. How are changing storm trends affecting these swells?
Answer: Changing storm trends in the South Atlantic, where storms are becoming more intense, contribute to the increased frequency and severity of Kallakkadal swell events.
Question 1: What causes Kallakkadal swells?
A) Local wind patterns
B) Intense storms in the South Atlantic
C) Earthquakes
D) Tidal waves
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: What height can waves associated with Kallakkadal reach?
A) 5-10 meters
B) 10-15 meters
C) 20-25 meters
D) 30-35 meters
Correct Answer: B
Question 3: Why are Kallakkadal swells dangerous?
A) They are predictable
B) They can cause sudden coastal erosion
C) They occur only during storms
D) They are harmless
Correct Answer: B
Question 4: Which season do Kallakkadal swells typically precede?
A) Winter
B) Summer
C) Monsoon
D) Spring
Correct Answer: C
Question 5: What is a suggested measure to mitigate the impact of Kallakkadal?
A) Ignore forecasts
B) Enhance last-mile dissemination of warnings
C) Build more structures
D) Reduce coastal vegetation
Correct Answer: B
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