Subject: Indian Geography

India Meteorological Department's color-coded warning system plays a crucial role in disaster preparedness and early warning systems for cyclone-prone areas. The system helps in effective communication of weather-related risks to various stakeholders and the general public.

Components of IMD's Color-Coded Warning System

Green Warning

• Indicates 'No Warning' - weather is normal.
• Suggests maintaining normal day-to-day activities.
• Regular monitoring of weather updates is advised.

Yellow Warning

• Signifies 'Be Updated' - weather is marginally bad.
• Indicates potential disruption of day-to-day activities.
• Requires continuous monitoring of weather conditions.

Orange Warning

• Represents 'Be Prepared' - weather is likely to deteriorate.
• Triggers preparation for disaster management authorities.
• Necessitates restriction of non-essential outdoor activities.

Red Warning

• Denotes 'Take Action' - extremely bad weather conditions.
• Calls for immediate evacuation from vulnerable areas.
• Requires activation of emergency response protocols.

Implementation and Impact

Communication Channels

• Utilizes multiple platforms including mobile apps, websites, and social media.
• Employs Common Alerting Protocol for standardized warning dissemination.
• Reaches 100% of population at risk in cyclone-prone areas.

Effectiveness

• Successfully reduced cyclone-related casualties to zero between 2020-2024.
• Enhanced preparedness through public awareness campaigns.
• Improved coordination among disaster management authorities.

The color-coded warning system, combined with advanced meteorological technologies and robust communication networks, has transformed India's cyclone preparedness capabilities. The success of this system is evident in initiatives like the response to Cyclone Biparjoy (2023), which demonstrated effective early warning and evacuation procedures, protecting nearly 900,000 people in Gujarat.