Andhra Pradesh Faces Maximum Cyclones In September And October: AP Disaster Management

Andhra Pradesh has endured significant cyclonic events over the last fifty years, with 60 cyclones recorded. Of these, 40 were classified as 'very severe'. Data from the AP Disaster Management Authority reveals that 24 of these storms occurred between September and December. These cyclones have resulted in the tragic loss of 147 lives.

In September 2018, Cyclone DAYE struck the northern part of Andhra Pradesh. Another cyclone, Gulab, impacted six districts in September 2021. The deadliest cyclone in September was in 2005, which claimed 105 lives and affected ten districts. October has also seen its share of severe cyclones.

Severe Cyclones in October

The 'very severe cyclonic storm' TITLI hit eight districts in October 2018. Cyclone Hud Hud in 2014 affected four districts and severely impacted around 92.78 lakh people, resulting in 63 deaths. Other notable cyclones include Phailin in 2013 and Ogni in 2006.

November has not been spared either. The 'very severe cyclonic storm' Nivar in 2020 affected six districts, while Cyclone Helen in 2013 caused nine deaths across ten districts. Other storms like Nilam in 2012 and Jal in 2010 resulted in a total of 64 deaths across thirteen districts.

December Cyclones

December has also witnessed destructive cyclones. In 2022, Cyclone Mandodus impacted six districts. Historical data shows that 'severe cyclonic storms' such as Phethai (2018), Vardah (2016), and Thane (2011) caused significant damage to Andhra Pradesh's coastal areas. Thane alone resulted in the loss of 64 lives.

The state's history with cyclones dates back to the early '70s. In September 1971, a severe storm hit near Srikakulam, followed by another affecting north coastal Andhra. The infamous Diviseema Cyclone of 1977 devastated regions from Srikakulam to Guntur, causing widespread destruction.

Historical Cyclonic Activity

Cyclonic activity continued through the '80s and '90s, with the intense Odisha cyclone of 1999 also impacting Andhra Pradesh. Stella S., director at IMD Amaravati bureau, mentioned that no cyclonic activity is expected for at least two weeks now.

She elaborated on why Andhra Pradesh frequently experiences cyclones between September and December: "The movement of the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ), favourable sea surface temperatures above 26.5°C and vorticity play a crucial role in cyclone formation."

P. Sunitha, a meteorology professor, explained that cyclones often form within about six weeks after the monsoon retreats: "The warming of the Bay of Bengal during October leads to evaporation and moisture build-up, creating ideal conditions for cyclonic development."