Cyclone ‘Murasu’ drums up fresh worry for Andhra after Arnab; red alert sounded in five districts
Cyclone Murasu is likely to cross the coast between Nellore and Narsapur on the night of November 2-3 as a severe cyclonic storm
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Context
Cyclone Murasu, a severe cyclonic storm, is projected to make landfall on the Andhra Pradesh coast, closely following the destructive Cyclone Arnab. The has issued red alerts for several districts, anticipating heavy rainfall and strong winds, highlighting the region's vulnerability to back-to-back extreme weather events.
UPSC Perspectives
Geographical
The formation of tropical cyclones in the Bay of Bengal is a recurring geographical phenomenon, driven by high sea surface temperatures and favorable atmospheric conditions. The Bay of Bengal is particularly prone to cyclogenesis due to its semi-enclosed nature, which allows for the accumulation of heat, and the influx of fresh water from major rivers, which creates a stratified surface layer that inhibits the mixing of cooler deep waters. The article notes that Cyclone Murasu originated as a deep depression over the southeast Bay of Bengal before intensifying. The naming of cyclones, such as 'Murasu' (meaning war drum in Tamil, contributed by India), follows a systematic procedure established by the and the to facilitate communication and disaster preparedness. UPSC often tests the conditions necessary for cyclone formation, the differences between the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea regarding cyclone frequency, and the nomenclature process.
Disaster Management
The occurrence of two severe cyclones within a week presents a significant challenge for disaster management and state infrastructure. The guidelines emphasize the need for robust early warning systems, efficient evacuation protocols, and resilient infrastructure to mitigate the impact of such events. The article highlights the extensive damage caused by the preceding Cyclone Arnab, including loss of life, crop submersion, and infrastructure destruction, underscoring the compounding effects of consecutive disasters. The issuance of a 'red alert' by the signifies the highest level of warning, requiring immediate action from authorities and the public. Effective disaster response requires coordination between central and state agencies, deployment of the , and rapid mobilization of relief resources. UPSC questions frequently focus on the institutional framework for disaster management in India, the role of early warning systems, and strategies for building climate resilience in coastal communities.
Economic
The economic impact of severe cyclones on coastal states is profound, affecting agriculture, infrastructure, and livelihoods. The article reports that Cyclone Arnab caused an estimated loss of ₹4,600 crore in Andhra Pradesh, damaging over 3.5 lakh hectares of crops and extensive road networks. Such recurring disasters strain state finances, necessitating central assistance through the and the . The destruction of agricultural land not only impacts the immediate economy but also threatens food security and the livelihoods of farmers. Furthermore, the damage to infrastructure, such as power grids and transportation networks, disrupts economic activities and requires significant investment for reconstruction. UPSC mains questions may explore the economic consequences of natural disasters, the mechanisms for disaster financing, and the need for integrating disaster risk reduction into economic planning and development strategies.