Context
The India Meteorological Department (IMD), under the Ministry of Earth Sciences, dedicated its Cyclone Warning and Marine Weather Services Decision Support System (DSS) to the nation.
About the Decision Support System (DSS)
- Launched by: India Meteorological Department (IMD).
- Ministry: Ministry of Earth Sciences.
- Platform type: Interactive, WebGIS-based platform.
- Availability: Publicly accessible through the IMD and Regional Specialised Meteorological Centre (RSMC), New Delhi, websites.
Key Features of the DSS
- Cyclone Tracking and Intensity: Displays observed and forecast cyclone tracks, intensity and the cone of uncertainty.
- Wind Distribution: Provides visualisations of wind patterns and associated hazards.
- Rainfall Forecasts: Presents district-wise rainfall warnings and rainfall forecasts for river catchments.
- Storm Surge Warnings: Provides information on potential storm surge hazards along vulnerable coastal areas.
- Interactive Maps and Visualisations: Integrates critical cyclone and marine weather information into a single platform.
- Decision Support: Helps disaster management authorities, government agencies and the public interpret forecasts and make informed decisions.
Conclusion
The IMD’s WebGIS-based DSS represents an important step towards integrating meteorological forecasting with practical disaster management. By bringing cyclone tracks, intensity, rainfall, wind and storm surge information together, it can strengthen early-warning services, improve inter-agency coordination and support timely action to protect coastal communities and maritime interests.