Understanding Cyclone Biparjoy: Naming Conventions and Global Collaboration

Cyclone Biparjoy, a recent tropical storm in the Arabian Sea, has raised significant concern in India. This storm's naming, like those of other tropical cyclones, is part of a broader international effort to manage and communicate information efficiently. The naming of cyclones is a crucial component of meteorology, ensuring clear and consistent communication during major weather events.

Why Naming Cyclones?

Every cyclone is given a name to simplify communications related to the storm. This practice is globally recognized, establishing a clear and concise method of referring to cyclones, which can help avoid confusion and ensure quick, effective communication during emergencies.

Biparjoy, a word derived from Bengali, meaning 'disaster' or 'calamity,' was suggested by Bangladesh and selected as the name for this cyclonic storm. The decision to use 'Biparjoy' underscores the importance of cultural and linguistic sensitivity in meteorological nomenclature.

Naming Conventions for Cyclones

The naming of cyclones is coordinated by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP) PTC, operating in conjunction with the World Meteorological Organization (WMO). In the Indian Ocean region, thirteen countries have agreed on a naming system since 2000. These countries include Bangladesh, India, Iran, Maldives, Myanmar, Oman, Pakistan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka, Thailand, the United Arab Emirates, and Yemen.

Rotational Naming System

The list of names is compiled and maintained by these countries, and each name is assigned in a rotational manner. This system ensures that names are reused in a predictable sequence, allowing for easy identification over time.

Criteria for Cyclone Names

Cyclone names must be:

Easy to remember and pronounce Free from controversy or offensiveness Drawn from various languages to ensure regional relevance and identification

These guidelines help to create a lexicon of cyclone names that is both useful and culturally sensitive, enhancing the effectiveness of meteorological communications.

Conclusion

The naming of Cyclone Biparjoy reflects the collaborative efforts of multiple nations and the importance of clear communication in the face of natural disasters. The rotational and culturally sensitive naming system ensures that every cyclone can be easily identified and discussed, contributing to better preparedness and response measures.

For more information on cyclone naming and the global efforts to manage tropical cyclones, visit WMO.