Q1. Consider the following statements regarding tropical cyclones and their monitoring in India:
- The India Meteorological Department (IMD) is the Regional Specialised Meteorological Centre for tropical cyclones over the north Indian Ocean.
- The Coriolis force is generally too weak near the equator to support the development of a well-organised tropical cyclone.
- High vertical wind shear generally favours tropical cyclone intensification by concentrating warm, moist air around the centre.
- The Bay of Bengal is a region of tropical cyclone formation that can expose the eastern coast of India to severe weather.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1, 2 and 4 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 3 and 4 only
Answer: (b)
Explanation:
- Statement 1 is correct: IMD serves as the Regional Specialised Meteorological Centre for tropical cyclones over the north Indian Ocean, including the Bay of Bengal and Arabian Sea.
- Statement 2 is correct: Tropical cyclones generally do not form within about 5° latitude of the equator because the Coriolis force is insufficient to provide the necessary rotation.
- Statement 3 is incorrect: Strong vertical wind shear generally disrupts a cyclone’s vertical structure and inhibits intensification. Low vertical wind shear is more favourable.
- Statement 4 is correct: The Bay of Bengal is a major cyclone-prone basin affecting India’s eastern coastal states, including Andhra Pradesh and Odisha.
