On one hand, cyclones are a source of intense rain over many parts of South India, on the other, they are threatening to the east coast due to their potential of causing widespread devastation. The threat becomes active in October mainly heading towards Odisha and West Bengal. November is a time when Andhra Pradesh becomes disposed to the threats of cyclonic storms and threatening cyclones followed by Tamil Nadu in December.
Cyclonic Circulations last year
Last year, eight cyclonic circulations formed in the Bay of Bengal out of which four turned into named cyclonic storms.
Phailin (Oct 13, 2013) – Very Severe Cyclonic Storm
Helen (November 22, 2013) – Cyclonic Storm
Leher (November 28, 2013) – Deep Depression
Madi (December 10, 2013) - Depression
Reminders of Phailin
The catastrophic Phailin struck the Odisha and Andhra coast last year causing massive destruction in the region- affecting 12 million people, same time of the year, i.e. 13th October. The cyclone season this year too has begun on a similar pattern as the recent cyclonic circulation around Andaman Sea is expected to make a landfall near coastal Andhra Pradesh and Odisha by 12th October. However, due to the limited sea travel, the circulation will not become a very severe cyclonic storm.