How Cyclones Form and How Scientists Measure Their Strength
Explained: The science behind nature’s most powerful storm systems New Delhi, Oct 29: A cyclone is one of nature’s most powerful weather systems — a vast rotating storm powered by heat and moisture from warm ocean waters. Known as hurricanes in the Atlantic and typhoons in the western Pacific, these storms can bring devastating winds, torrential rain, and coastal flooding.
How a Cyclone Begins
Every cyclone starts with a low-pressure zone over tropical waters, typically where clusters of thunderstorms form. For this system to strengthen, the sea surface temperature must exceed 26.5°C, and the warm layer should extend at least 50 metres deep.
As moist air rises from the ocean, it cools and condenses, forming clouds and releasing latent heat. This heat warms the surrounding air, making it rise even faster. The process creates a self-sustaining cycle — warm, moist air rises at the centre while cooler air spirals in from the surroundings, giving birth to the cyclone’s rotating structure.
How Cyclones Are Classified
Meteorologists measure cyclones based on wind speed, air pressure, and storm surge potential. In the North Indian Ocean, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) classifies them into stages such as:
· Depression (wind speeds 31–49 km/h)
· Deep Depression (50–61 km/h)
· Cyclonic Storm (62–88 km/h)
· Severe Cyclonic Storm (89–117 km/h)
· Very Severe Cyclonic Storm (118–165 km/h)
· Super Cyclone (over 222 km/h)
These measurements are tracked using satellite data, aircraft observations, and weather buoys, helping forecasters issue timely warnings to vulnerable coastal regions.
Why It Matters
Understanding how cyclones form and evolve is key to improving early-warning systems, reducing loss of life, and planning disaster response. While their power can’t be stopped, accurate forecasting helps ensure that communities are better prepared when these massive storms make landfall.
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