With Cyclone Dana’s recent passage, another formidable storm is already looming on the horizon, and the name has been chosen – one that holds an ominous undertone. But before diving into the name, let’s understand the naming process itself.
Cyclone names in this region are selected through a system established by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO). The WMO has a panel that comprises several countries, including India, Bangladesh, Iran, Maldives, Myanmar, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka, Thailand, the United Arab Emirates, and Yemen. Each country contributes to a predetermined list of names that are rotated as each new storm forms.
The Bay of Bengal is especially vulnerable to cyclones, often experiencing major storms in the pre-monsoon period (April-May) and the post-monsoon period (October). Just two years ago, the massive Cyclone Yaas, named by Oman, struck the coasts of West Bengal and Odisha, causing widespread devastation.
The previous cyclone, Remaal, was named by Oman, while the recent cyclone, Dana, was named by Qatar. According to the WMO naming rules, the next cyclone in this region is set to be called “Fengal,” with its name being proposed by Saudi Arabia. The exact meaning behind Fengal remains unclear, but meteorologists are speculating on a significant impact, given that names often carry a certain cultural or regional meaning that reflects the anticipated intensity or nature of the storm.
Following “Fengal,” the next cyclone in line has been named “Shakti,” a name contributed by Sri Lanka, which in many South Asian languages means “strength” or “power.” This name raises further concerns, as it hints at the potential magnitude of destruction the storm could bring.
The frequency of cyclones forming in the Bay of Bengal continues to escalate, likely exacerbated by changing climate patterns. Meteorologists are carefully tracking patterns to predict the behavior of future storms. Experts have also noted a shift in intensity, with cyclones growing stronger and more erratic in their trajectories, making them harder to predict and thus more dangerous for coastal populations.
If Fengal materializes with the power suggested by its foreboding name, the region may have to brace itself for a severe impact. Coastal states are already on alert, with disaster management teams preparing for any eventuality. As the Bay of Bengal continues to be a breeding ground for powerful storms, the need for proactive planning and preparedness remains paramount for the millions of people living in vulnerable areas.
