Advanced Dvorak Technique(ADT): How this cyclone intensity estimation technique saved millions of lives across continents

Source: The post is based on the article “How this cyclone intensity estimation technique saved millions of lives across continents” published in Indian Express on 23rd September 2022

What is the News?

American meteorologist Vernon Dvorak, credited for developing the Advanced Dvorak Technique(ADT) in the 1970s, has passed away.

What is Advanced Dvorak Technique(ADT)?

Advanced Dvorak Technique(ADT) is a widely used system to estimate tropical cyclone intensity.

This technique utilizes the available satellite images obtained from polar-orbiting satellites to examine the features of the developing tropical storms (hurricanes, cyclones and typhoons). 

During the daytime, images in the visible spectrum were used while at night, the ocean would be observed using infrared images.

Note: This technique cannot help make any predictions, or measure wind or pressure or any other meteorological parameters associated with the cyclone. But it is a guide to estimate the storm’s intensity and possible intensification.

What is the significance of this technique?

This technique is said to be one of the greatest meteorological innovations. Even in the present day, when forecasters have access to several state-of-the-art tools like model guidance, animations, artificial intelligence, machine learning and satellite technology, this technique continues to be widely used.