Cyclone Fengal: Understanding the Formation, Structure, and Impact of Tropical Cyclones

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Cyclone Fengal (pronounced ‘Fein-jaal’) is a tropical cyclone, one of the most powerful meteorological phenomena on Earth. These large, rotating storm systems develop over warm ocean waters and are driven by complex atmospheric processes. 

In Pictures: As Cyclone Fengal intensifies in Tamil Nadu

Formation of Tropical Cyclones

Tropical cyclones form under specific conditions:

Warm Sea Surface Temperatures (SSTs): The sea must have temperatures above 26.5°C to provide the necessary heat energy.
Atmospheric Instability: Warm, moist air rising must be balanced by cooler air descending to sustain convection.
Low Wind Shear: Minimal variation in wind speed and direction with height allows the cyclone to organize.
Coriolis Effect: This deflective force, due to Earth's rotation, causes the storm to spin, which is why cyclones don’t form near the equator (within 5° latitude).
Pre-existing Disturbance: A low-pressure area or tropical wave often acts as the seed for cyclone formation.

When water evaporates from the ocean surface, it rises, cools, and condenses into clouds, releasing latent heat. This heat fuels further uplift and intensifies the low-pressure system, eventually forming a rotating cyclone.

Structure of a Fully Developed Cyclone

Once mature, a tropical cyclone exhibits a complex 3D structure with distinct features:

The Eye: The eye is the calm center of the storm, often 20-40 km in diameter. Air descends in this region, leading to clear skies and relatively calm conditions.

The Eyewall: Surrounding the eye is the eyewall, a ring of intense thunderstorms characterized by powerful winds, torrential rain, and lightning. The eyewall is where the cyclone's most severe weather occurs.

Central Dense Overcast (CDO): The CDO consists of high-altitude clouds that often obscure the eye from satellite view. This dense cluster of clouds appears as a bright white disc in satellite imagery, indicating the cyclone’s intensity.

Cyclone Evolution and Landfall

Sustained Over Water: Cyclones thrive over warm oceans, drawing moisture from the surface to fuel the development of new thunderstorms.

Landfall Dynamics: When the cyclone’s eye moves over land, its energy supply is cut off, causing it to weaken rapidly. However, the storm’s impact at landfall can be devastating due to:

  • Strong Winds: Destructive winds cause widespread structural damage.
  • Heavy Rainfall: Intense rain can lead to flash flooding.
  • Storm Surges: Elevated sea levels flood coastal areas, compounding the destruction.

Eyewall Replacement Cycle

In some cyclones, an outer ring of thunderstorms forms and gradually replaces the inner eyewall. This process temporarily weakens the cyclone, but if completed, it can reinvigorate the storm, making it stronger.

Historical Cyclone Case Studies

  • Cyclone Tauktae (2021): Originating in the Arabian Sea, it made landfall in Gujarat and brought severe weather as far inland as New Delhi.
  • Cyclone Gulab and Shaheen (2021): Cyclone Gulab made landfall in Andhra Pradesh, weakened, but later reemerged as Cyclone Shaheen in the Arabian Sea, making a second landfall in Oman.

These examples highlight the unpredictable paths and potential for reformation, emphasizing the need for vigilant monitoring.

Scientific Advancements in Cyclone Prediction

Modern forecasting uses advanced satellite imagery, radar systems, and computational models to predict cyclone formation, path, and intensity. Early warning systems and improved understanding of cyclogenesis have significantly reduced cyclone-related fatalities.

Role of Climate Change

Climate change is intensifying cyclones due to rising sea surface temperatures. Warmer oceans provide more energy, potentially increasing cyclone intensity and rainfall rates, leading to more frequent Category 4 and 5 storms.

Conclusion

Cyclone Fengal, like all tropical cyclones, demonstrates the complex interplay of atmospheric and oceanic processes. While cyclones can cause catastrophic damage, scientific advancements in forecasting and understanding have mitigated their impact on human lives. Continued research is crucial, especially in the context of climate change, to enhance resilience and preparedness against these formidable natural forces.

References

https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/cyclone-fengal-what-is-landfall/article68931261.ece

https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/cyclone-fengal-live-tamil-nadu-puducherry-dec-1-2024/article68933906.ece

Location: India
Welcome to EcoVisionary. I'm Dr. Anitha V, an environmentalist passionate about exploring and sharing insights on the intricate relationship between humans and the natural world. Having successfully completed my Ph.D. in Environmental Sciences, my goal is to raise awareness of pressing environmental issues and inspire actionable solutions for a healthier planet. Through engaging articles, in-depth research, and thought-provoking discussions, I aim to empower readers to embrace sustainable practices and become stewards of the environment. Join me on this journey to create a more sustainable future, where every small step can lead to significant change.

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