Q. Discuss the meaning of colour-coded weather warnings for cyclone prone areas given by India Meteorological department.

Model Answer:

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) uses a four-tier, colour-coded early warning system to communicate cyclone severity and trigger rapid administrative action.

Meaning and Mandated Actions of IMD Colour Codes

• Green (No Warning): Normal conditions. No immediate cyclonic threat; routine coastal activities continue safely.
• Yellow (Watch – Be Updated): Signals potential weather deterioration. Authorities maintain vigilance; public monitors local broadcasts.
• Orange (Alert – Be Prepared): Severe cyclone likelihood. Mandates suspending fishing, mobilizing NDRF/SDRF, and readying shelters (e.g., Cyclone Biparjoy).
• Red (Warning – Take Action): Imminent extreme threat. Triggers immediate mass evacuations and total suspension of transport/power grids (e.g., Cyclone Amphan).

Significance in Disaster Preparedness

• Standardized Communication: Bypasses linguistic barriers across diverse coastal states for universal public comprehension.
• Institutional Trigger: Directly activates National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) SOPs for structured resource deployment.
• Global Compliance: Advances Sendai Framework Target G by enhancing public access to multi-hazard early warning systems.

These impact-based codes bridge meteorological science and grassroots governance, proving crucial for achieving India’s “zero casualty” approach during severe coastal hazards.