Discuss the meaning of colour-coded weather warnings for cyclone prone areas given by India Meteorological Department. (Answer in…

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) uses a four-tier colour code to turn forecasts into graded, actionable alerts for cyclone-prone coasts.

Green (No Warning): Denotes calm, stable weather conditions where no adverse event is expected and no administrative action is required.

Yellow (Watch / Be Updated): Signals the possibility of severe weather, such as isolated heavy downpours, warranting regular monitoring by administrations and the public, though severe damage is unlikely.

Orange (Alert / Be Prepared): Warns of a high probability of severe weather capable of disrupting transport, power, and communication infrastructure. It prompts authorities to initiate preparatory steps and readiness measures.

Red (Warning / Take Action): Signifies imminent, extremely severe weather with high potential for widespread destruction, mandating emergency operations, mass evacuations, and disaster mitigation measures.

Cyclone-specific four-stage warnings: For cyclones, IMD issues a Pre-Cyclone Watch (72 hours ahead, no colour), a Cyclone Alert (48 hours, yellow), a Cyclone Warning (24 hours, orange, when the landfall point is forecast) and a Post-Landfall Outlook (12 hours before landfall, red, covering impacts in interior areas).

This system enables the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and State Disaster Management Authorities (SDMAs) to activate Standard Operating Procedures, pre-position response forces, and mobilize relief.