A powerful cyclonic storm named Dana is brewing over the East-Central Bay of Bengal. Forecasts indicate it could intensify by October 23, with a projected landfall near the Odisha-West Bengal coastline, particularly close to Puri, by the morning of October 24. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued warnings for severe weather conditions likely to accompany this storm.
The Essence of Dana
The name Dana (دانة) is of Arabic origin, symbolizing a perfectly formed, precious pearl—a fitting choice given its popularity in the Arabian Gulf, where pearl diving has been a time-honored occupation. In Persian, Dana carries meanings such as donation, grant, and endowment. Suggested by Qatar, Dana joins a standardized international naming system for tropical cyclones to aid in easy identification and enhance public awareness about weather hazards.
Cyclone Naming Conventions
Assigning names to cyclones is now a global standard, improving communication and tracking efforts. In the North Indian Ocean region, a list of cyclone names was compiled by 13 countries, including India, Bangladesh, and Qatar, in April 2020. This initiative enables media and the public to refer to cyclones effortlessly, fostering clear communication around storm preparedness.
The Naming Process
The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) oversees the naming process, ensuring choices are culturally neutral, simple to pronounce, and respectful. Names are submitted by member countries at annual or biennial meetings, with each selection meeting strict criteria to ensure appropriateness for the general public.
Historical Origins
The tradition of naming storms dates back centuries. Originally, storms were identified by dates or geographical locations. In the late 1800s, Caribbean storms were named after saints of the day, in line with the Roman Catholic calendar. Post-World War II, meteorologists started using female names for storms to establish a more organized system.
By 1953, the U.S. Weather Service implemented a phonetic list of female names, which later expanded to include male names following criticism about gender bias. Today, cyclones are named from predetermined lists that rotate periodically.
The Purpose of Naming Cyclones
Naming cyclones serves a crucial purpose: simplifying identification and recall. Instead of relying on numerical or technical terms, assigning a name to a storm makes it easier for meteorologists, government agencies, and the public to discuss it. This clarity is invaluable during emergencies, enabling quick and direct communication.
Unique names further support media reporting and information sharing, allowing for timely updates and warnings. With multiple storms sometimes occurring simultaneously, names also help avoid confusion and aid in distinguishing between different systems.
In Summary
With Cyclone Dana nearing, residents along the Odisha and West Bengal coasts are advised to stay vigilant and prepared. Recognizing the significance of the cyclone’s name and the protocols behind storm naming contributes to a deeper awareness of these formidable natural events.
published by dailybharat
