- By Aditi Priya Singh
- Sun, 23 Nov 2025 02:10 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Important cyclone Terms: Meteorologists predict, a new cyclone is developing over the Bay of Bengal and this weak system may soon intensify. As coastal areas prepare for rainstorms, strong winds and rough ocean waves, knowing the true meaning of alert phrases becomes increasingly important. These forecast terms are more than just words, but they influence decisions, quick responses to advice, or understanding how dangerous an impending storm may be.
Once they understand the lingo, people in storm-affected areas make decisions more quickly—no more guessing games at home. Whether you live near the coast, are a child glued to the TV, or are out on a boat scanning swells, knowing weather talk increases your awareness of danger.
Important Cyclone Terms and Their Meanings
Here are 20+ important cyclone terms explained simply, so that everyone can confidently understand weather reports and protect themselves during cyclone season.
1. Cyclone: A large spinning storm over the sea that brings very strong winds and heavy rainfall.
2. Low-Pressure Area: A region where the air pressure is lower than surrounding areas, often the beginning stage of a cyclone.
3. Depression: A weak stage of a cyclone with winds below 63 km/h.
4. Deep Depression: A stronger form of depression with more organised clouds and higher wind speed.
5. Cyclonic Storm: A storm with winds between 63 and 118 km/h, officially recognised as a cyclone.
6. Severe Cyclonic Storm: A cyclone with higher wind speeds and greater potential for damage.
7. Very Severe Cyclonic Storm: A stronger and more dangerous category of cyclone.
8. Super Cyclonic Storm: The highest category, with extremely powerful winds and destructive impact.
9. Eye: The calm center of the cyclone, where the sky may be clear and winds are gentle.
10. Eyewall: The ring around the eye where the strongest winds and heaviest rainfall occur.
11. Rain Bands: Curved lines of clouds and rain around the cyclone that bring heavy showers and gusty winds.
12. Storm Surge: A rise in sea level pushed toward the coast by strong cyclone winds, causing flooding.
13. Landfall: When the centre of the cyclone moves from the sea to the land.
14. Convection: The upward movement of warm air that helps form storm clouds.
15. Wind Shear: A change in wind speed or direction that can weaken or stop a cyclone from growing.
16. Cyclogenesis: The process through which a cyclone forms.
17. Dissipation: The weakening and breaking down of a cyclone.
18. Jet Stream: Strong winds high in the atmosphere that can influence the movement of a cyclone.
19. Barometric Pressure: The measure of air pressure; very low pressure usually indicates a strong cyclone.
20. Squall: A sudden burst of strong wind, often accompanied by rain.
21. Gale: Very strong winds are usually found near the outer portions of a cyclone.
22. Rainfall Intensity: The heaviness of rainfall, described in millimetres per hour.
23. Evacuation: Moving people from dangerous areas to safer locations before the cyclone arrives.
24. Cyclone Warning: An alert issued by the weather department to prepare the public for an approaching storm.
25. Aftermath: The situation after the cyclone passes, including damage and recovery efforts.
