Cyclone Remal

Source- This post on Cyclone Remal has been created based on the article “Prime Minister reviews the impact of cyclone “Remal” published in “PIB” on 2 June 2024.

Why in News?

The Prime Minister reviewed the impact of cyclone “Remal. He was briefed about the impact of the cyclone on the affected states.

About Cyclone Remal

1) Cyclone Remal is a tropical cyclone that formed in the Northern Indian Ocean, specifically in the Bay of Bengal.

2) The name “Remal” means “sand” in Arabic and was named by Oman, following the standard naming protocol for cyclones in the region.

3) Cyclone Remal recently struck the coasts of Bangladesh and West Bengal, causing fatalities, power outages, and inundation of coastal areas.

Reasons Behind the Formation of Cyclone Remal

1) Sea Surface Warming: The main driver of Remal’s formation is the increased sea surface temperatures, which provide the necessary energy for cyclone development.

2) Low Wind Shear: Low wind shear conditions allow for better storm organization and strengthening.

3) Moist Atmosphere: High moisture levels in the atmosphere are crucial as they contribute to condensation, releasing energy that fuels the cyclone.

4) Atmospheric Instability: Warm, moist air rising rapidly leads to cloud formation and energy release, which are essential for cyclone development.

About Cyclones

1) A cyclone is a large air mass rotating around a central point of low atmospheric pressure.

2) In the Northern Hemisphere, cyclones rotate counterclockwise, while in the Southern Hemisphere, they rotate clockwise.

3) Conditions Required for Cyclone Formation:

i) Warm Ocean Waters: Sea surface temperatures must be at least 26.5°C (about 80°F) to provide the necessary energy.

ii) Atmospheric Instability: Warm, moist air rising from the ocean enhances the formation of thunderstorms.

iii) High Humidity: Humidity in the lower to mid levels of the troposphere supports cloud formation.

iv) Low Vertical Wind Shear: Minimal wind shear is crucial as high shear can disrupt the cyclone’s structure.

v) Pre-existing Disturbances: Weather disturbances like old fronts or troughs can initiate cyclone formation.

vi) Coriolis Force: Essential for the spinning motion of the cyclone, effective away from the equator (at least 5 degrees latitude).

UPSC Syllabus: Geography