Question

Identify correct statements with reference to tropical cyclones in India:
A. More cyclones form in the Bay of Bengal than in the Arabian sea.
B. Almost all storms in the Bay of Bengal have their genesis between equator and 10°N.
C. The October-November months recorded the highest frequency of cyclones (1897-2014).
D. Cyclone warning and cyclone shelters are effective means of reducing loss of human lives.
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. A and B only
• B. B, C and D only
• C. A, B and D only
• D. A, C and D only

Hint:

Coriolis force is zero at the Equator. That is why cyclones (which need spin) cannot form exactly on the Equator.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Concept: India's coastline is highly vulnerable to tropical cyclones. The frequency and intensity of these storms vary between the two flanking seas and across different seasons.

Step 1: Evaluating Frequency and Location (A and B).

• A. Bay of Bengal: Statistically, the Bay of Bengal sees roughly 4 times more cyclones than the Arabian Sea due to higher surface temperatures and lower wind shear. This is correct.
• B. Genesis: Most cyclones in the Bay of Bengal actually originate between 10°N and 15°N. Formation exactly near the equator (0-5°) is rare because the Coriolis force (necessary for rotation) is too weak there. Statement B is incorrect.

Step 2: Evaluating Seasonality (C).
While cyclones occur in the pre-monsoon (April-May), the post-monsoon months of October and November are the most dangerous and record the highest frequency of severe cyclonic storms in India's history. This is correct.

Step 3: Evaluating Mitigation (D).
Modern disaster management relies on Early Warning Systems (EWS) and physical infrastructure like specialized cyclone shelters. These have been proven to reduce human mortality by over 90% compared to earlier decades. This is correct.

Step 4: Conclusion.
Statements A, C, and D are correct.