Overview and Current Situation
A low-pressure area has developed over the southeast Bay of Bengal in late November 2025 and is expected to intensify into a depression by November 24, potentially forming a cyclonic storm by November 26. This system poses a threat primarily to the eastern coastal states of India, including Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal. Heavy rainfall, strong winds, and flooding are anticipated, with coastal communities advised to remain alert.
Geographical and Meteorological Facts
- Bay of Bengal Cyclones: The Bay of Bengal is highly cyclone-prone due to warm sea surface temperatures and conducive atmospheric conditions during the pre-monsoon (April-June) and post-monsoon (October-December) seasons.
- Cyclone Formation: Cyclones develop from low-pressure areas intensified by moisture-laden winds over the warm ocean. They can rapidly escalate in strength due to favorable conditions like sea surface temperatures above 28°C and low vertical wind shear.
- Impact Zones: Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands frequently bear the brunt of these cyclones, experiencing heavy rainfall, storm surges, and floods.
- Disaster Preparedness: Odisha is known for its improved cyclone preparedness and disaster management after the 1999 super cyclone, which drastically reduced casualty rates in recent cyclones.
Significance for Civil Services Aspirants (UPSC & OPSC)
- Governance and Disaster Management: Understanding the meteorological basis and governance mechanisms for cyclone preparedness is crucial. Odisha’s effective early warning systems and evacuation plans are model examples of disaster management.
- Environmental and Geographical Dimensions: The cyclone system offers insight into climate dynamics, coastal vulnerability, and the challenges of disaster resilience, fitting into the UPSC Geography and Environment syllabus.
- Policy and Community Impact: Examine the government’s policy interventions, such as the Odisha State Disaster Management Authority (OSDMA), coastal embankments, and community participation that enhance resilience.
- Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Link cyclone preparedness with targets under SDG 13 (Climate Action) and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities).
Potential Exam Questions
Prelims
1. Which of the following Indian states are most prone to Bay of Bengal cyclones?
(a) Gujarat & Maharashtra
(b) Odisha & Andhra Pradesh
(c) Punjab & Haryana
(d) Rajasthan & Gujarat
2. What atmospheric condition is primarily responsible for the formation of cyclones?
(a) High-pressure areas
(b) Low-pressure areas
(c) Drought conditions
(d) Cold ocean currents
Mains
1. Discuss the factors responsible for cyclone formation over the Bay of Bengal and analyze their socio-economic impact on the eastern coastal states of India.
2. Examine the disaster management strategies implemented by the Odisha government in mitigating cyclone effects and their relevance for other vulnerable regions of India.
3. How do frequent tropical cyclones in the Bay of Bengal region influence the climate resilience policies under India’s sustainable development framework?
Key Takeaways for Aspirants
- Focus on the meteorological causes, historical cyclone trends in the Bay of Bengal, and Odisha’s disaster preparedness initiatives.
- Link environment, geography, governance, and disaster management for integrated answers.
- Use current cyclone events to enrich answers with recent, relevant examples.
- Stay updated on IMD cyclone bulletins and government actions to provide contemporary context.