IMD Dedicates Cyclone Warning and Marine Weather Services Decision Support System to the Nation on 12th October, 2026

Key Highlights:

• The India Meteorological Department (IMD) dedicated the Cyclone Warning and Marine Weather Services Decision Support System (DSS) to the nation on October 12, 2026.
• The DSS is an interactive WebGIS-based platform designed to provide critical cyclone and marine weather information.
• It aims to assist disaster management authorities, government agencies, and the general public in understanding potential hazards and making informed decisions.
• The launch took place during the bi-annual Pre-Cyclone Exercise Meeting for the post-monsoon season (October-December) 2026.
• The system offers interactive maps and visualizations of cyclone tracks, intensity, winds, rainfall, storm surge, and river catchment forecasts.

Detailed Insights:

• The DSS is designed to bridge the gap between weather forecasts and their practical application, enabling better preparedness and timely action during severe weather events.
• Its development builds upon IMD's successful predictions of Very Severe Cyclonic Storm Phailin (2013) and Very Severe Cyclonic Storm Hudhud (2014).
• The bi-annual Pre-Cyclone Exercise Meeting, conducted since 2008, serves as a vital platform for reviewing preparedness and fostering coordination among stakeholders.
• Over 30 organizations, including NDMA, NDRF, MHA, Defence Forces, and State Disaster Management Authorities, participated in the launch event.
• This platform significantly enhances India's early-warning capabilities, contributing to international recognition in disaster preparedness.

Scientific/Technical Concepts Involved:

• Decision Support System (DSS): A computer-based information system that supports organizational or managerial decision-making activities.
• WebGIS: A Geographic Information System (GIS) that uses web technologies to integrate, store, edit, analyze, and display geographic information.
• Cyclone Warning: A system of alerts issued by meteorological agencies to inform the public and authorities about the potential threat of a tropical cyclone.
• Early Warning System: An integrated system of hazard monitoring, forecasting, and prediction, disaster risk assessment, communication, and preparedness activities.