Monsoon Prediction in India
Context: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted a plentiful monsoon season. The forecast indicates that rainfall from June to September is anticipated to exceed the average of 87 cm, with an expected increase of 6%. This is a notably assertive prediction from the agency, which typically refrains from indicating either surplus or deficit rainfall in its April forecasts. […]
Above Normal Monsoon for India in 2024
Context: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted an “above normal” monsoon rainfall for India between June and September this year. Remarkably, this is the first time in a decade that the IMD has forecasted “above normal” rainfall at the initial stage, nearly 45 days ahead of the onset of the four-month monsoon season. This […]
13 East-Flowing Rivers Between Mahanadi and Pennar Run Dry
Context: According to data released by the Central Water Commission (CWC), at least 13 east-flowing rivers between the Mahanadi and Pennar basins are currently devoid of water. This alarming situation underscores the severity of the water crisis affecting these regions and highlights the urgent need for sustainable water management practices, conservation efforts, and effective water […]
Major Earthquake Strikes Taiwan
Context: Taiwan experienced a powerful 7.2 magnitude earthquake, marking the strongest seismic event in the region in the last 25 years. The quake’s epicentre was situated a mere 18 kilometres south-southwest of Hualien County in eastern Taiwan. Being located along the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” where 90% of the world’s earthquakes occur, Taiwan remains susceptible […]
About Swell Waves
Context: Recently, swell waves inundated coastal areas in central and southern districts of Kerala. Relevance: GS I: Geography About Swell Waves Formation of Swell Waves Characteristics of Swell Waves Early Warning Systems in India -Source: The Hindu
Deadly Tornado Hits Mainaguri West Bengal
Context: A devastating tornado recently hit the Mainaguri area in the Jalpaiguri district of West Bengal, lasting for approximately 10 minutes. The natural disaster resulted in the tragic loss of five lives, with more than 100 people sustaining injuries. The event highlights the destructive power of tornadoes and underscores the urgent need for preparedness and […]
New Study Advocates for Category 6 Hurricane Classification
Context: A recent study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences proposes the addition of a Category 6 to the existing hurricane wind scale. Researchers assert that hurricane wind speeds can exceed 309 km/hour, suggesting that the current scale’s highest category, Category 5, may not adequately represent the extreme wind speeds experienced […]
Will India Experience more Heat Wave Days this Summer
Context: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) declared higher-than-average heat wave conditions for various regions of India on Monday. These conditions are affecting the southern, central, eastern, and northwestern parts of the country. This announcement coincides with India’s ongoing struggle to meet its electricity demand. Relevance: Mains Question: What defines a heat wave and how does the IMD […]
MEGHAYAN 2024
Focus: GS I: Geography Why in News? About World Meteorological Day: World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) History: Headquarters and Membership: Governance Structure: The governance structure of WMO comprises several key bodies responsible for policy-making, decision-making, and the day-to-day operations of the organization: World Meteorological Congress: Executive Council: Technical Commissions and Regional Associations: Secretariat:
About Spring Equinox
Context: March 19 marked the spring or vernal equinox, the first day of spring in the Northern Hemisphere. Relevance: GS I: Geography About Spring Equinox: Northern Hemisphere: Southern Hemisphere: Seasonal Changes: -Source: The Hindu