Cyclone Dana on its Way: How are Cyclones Named?

Mallika Sadhu

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21-10-2024

5 min read

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Cyclone Dana on its Way: How are Cyclones Named?

Cyclone Dana is intensifying and is expected to reach the Odisha-West Bengal coast by October 24, raising concerns about heavy rainfall and possible flooding in the area. As people prepare for its impact, its interesting to explore how tropical cyclones get their names and significance behind Cyclone Dana.

How are Tropical Cyclone Names Managed by the WMO?

Tropical Cyclone names are managed by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO). This organization maintains a designated list of names for each storm, enhancing communication and awareness. The naming system is systematic: names are rotated every six years and arranged in alphabetical order. This approach makes it easier for people to track and understand the storms movements and effects.

What Is the Origin of the Name ‘Dana’ and Other Cyclone Names?

Cyclone Dana — Image Source: Hindustan Times

The name Dana originated from Saudi Arabia, which is one of the 14 countries involved in the WMOs naming system. The system names tropical cyclones in the North Indian Ocean. In Arabic Dana translates to generosity and bounty. This naming convention highlights the cultural importance of the area. It also promotes awareness and cultural interaction among countries impacted by these storms.

This is not the first time a cyclone has been named after a regional term. Other notable example include:

Cyclone Tauktae (named by Myanmar, meaning “gecko”)
Cyclone Nivar (named by Iran, meaning “light” or “breeze”)
Cyclone Amphan (named by Thailand, meaning “sky”)

These names not only make the storms more relatable, but also create a sense of regional identity in the worldwide initiative to track and predict their paths.

How Did the Naming Process for Cyclones in the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea Begin?

The WMO/ESCAP Panel on Tropical Cyclones decided to assign names to tropical cyclones in the Bay of Bengal and Arabian Sea during its twenty-seventh Session in 2000. The session took place in Muscat, Oman.

The naming process started in September 2004, with eight member countries contributing the initial set of names. Over the years, five additional countries have joined the panel, increasing the range of names available.

When and Where is Cyclone Dana Expected to Develop and Intensify?

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Cyclone Dana is anticipated to develop over the central Andaman Sea by October 23. It is expected to reach the northwest Bay of Bengal by the morning of October 24, impacting the coasts of Odisha and West Bengal. Wind speeds are predicted to reach speeds of 60 km/h by October 23 and could intensify to 120 km/h by the night of October 24 into the morning of October 25.

How Should Fishermen and Residents Prepare for Cyclone Dana?

Due to the impending cyclone, the IMD has recommended that fishermen along the coasts of Odisha and West Bengal avoid venturing into the sea starting October 23 due to expected high winds and rough sea conditions.

Additionally, residents in affected areas should stay updated about the latest weather forecasts and take necessary precautions, particularly those in low-lying regions prone to flooding. As Cyclone Dana approaches, it is crucial for everyone to follow safety guidelines issued by local authorities and to prepare for potential impacts.

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Cyclone Dana Odisha-West Bengal Coast World Meteorological Organization Tropical Cyclone Natural Disaster