12-11-2025 Mains Question Answer
Analyse the formative stages of development of a tropical cyclone. How is global warming changing the dynamics of this secondary circulation?
Tropical cyclones are intense low-pressure systems that form over warm tropical oceans. The formation and intensification of tropical cyclones, influenced by evolving climate dynamics, represents a critical area of study in meteorological sciences.
Formation Stages of Tropical Cyclones
| Initial Formation Stage | Development begins with tropical disturbance over warm ocean waters (temperature > 26.5°C). |
| Low–pressure system forms due to convergence of warm, moist air near the surface. | |
| Coriolis force initiates cyclonic rotation, crucial for system organization. | |
| Development Stage | Enhanced convection leads to thunderstorm formation around the low-pressure center. |
| Formation of primary rainbands and initial eye wall development begins. | |
| Wind speed increases gradually as the system organizes into a tropical depression. | |
| Intensification Stage | System transforms into a tropical storm when winds intensifies. |
| Eye formation occurs with clear skies at center and intense surrounding wall. | |
| Pressure gradient strengthens, leading to increased wind speeds. |
Impact of Global Warming
- Temperature Effects:
- Rising sea surface temperatures provide more energy for cyclone formation and intensification.
- According to IPCC’s latest reports, there’s high confidence in increased intensity of tropical cyclones.
- Enhanced water vapor content in warmer atmosphere fuels stronger storms.
- Temperature Effects:
- Changes in Cyclone Characteristics
- There’s a trend towards increased wind speeds in intense cyclones
- The global proportion of Category 4 and Category 5 cyclones are likely to increase with warming.
- Environmental Modifications
- Changes in Walker Circulation and Indian Ocean Dipole affecting cyclone patterns.
- Wind shear patterns being altered, influencing cyclone formation and track.
- Extreme rainfall associated with cyclones intensifying due to anthropogenic climate change.
The dynamic interaction between tropical cyclones and global warming presents both challenges and opportunities for enhanced understanding of these powerful atmospheric phenomena. The monitoring systems like those tracking Cyclone Vince in 2025 demonstrate our improving capacity to study these evolving weather systems, crucial for disaster preparedness and climate adaptation strategies.