Subject: Disaster Management

The recent devastating cloudburst in Sikkim (October 2023) and subsequent glacial lake outburst flood, causing widespread destruction and loss of lives, highlights the critical importance of understanding this meteorological phenomenon in the Indian subcontinent.

Mechanism of Cloudburst

• Definition: A cloudburst is characterized by extremely intense rainfall (>100mm/hour) over a localized area, typically lasting for a short duration (2-3 hours).

• Formation Process:

  • Occurs when warm monsoon winds interact with cold mountain air.
  • Rapid vertical movement of moisture-laden air leads to the formation of cumulonimbus clouds.
  • Orographic lifting along mountain slopes enhances the process.
  • Sudden cooling and condensation result in the release of massive amounts of water.

Geographical Context in Indian Subcontinent

• Vulnerable Regions:
  • Western Himalayas: Particularly Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh.
  • Eastern Himalayas: Sikkim and Northeast India.
  • Areas with steep topography and narrow valleys are most susceptible.

Recent Examples

1. Himachal Pradesh Cloudbursts (2023)

• 170 cloudburst and landslide incidents recorded from June 24, 2023.
• Most affected districts: Lahaul-Spiti (22 incidents) and Kinnaur (11 incidents).
• Caused damages worth approximately ₹1,360 crore.

2. Sikkim Cloudburst (2023)

• Occurred on October 4th in South Lhonak Lake region.
• Triggered Glacial Lake Outburst Flood (GLOF).
• Resulted in the destruction of Teesta III dam and severe infrastructure damage.

Way Forward

India needs an integrated approach combining advanced weather monitoring systems, community-based early warning mechanisms, and climate change adaptation strategies. The recent establishment of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) specialized teams in vulnerable regions demonstrates a step towards better disaster preparedness.