IMD Launches Advanced Cyclone Warning and Marine Weather Decision Support System

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) launched the Cyclone Warning and Marine Weather Services Decision Support System (DSS) on October 12, 2026, marking an important advancement in India’s efforts to strengthen cyclone forecasting, coastal safety and disaster preparedness. The new interactive, WebGIS-based platform integrates cyclone tracking, storm intensity forecasts, wind distribution, district-wise rainfall warnings, storm surge information and river catchment rainfall forecasts into a unified digital system. By bringing together critical meteorological information, the platform aims to help disaster management authorities, government agencies, maritime organisations and the public make informed decisions during severe weather events.

The system was dedicated to the nation during IMD’s biannual Pre-Cyclone Exercise Meeting for the October–December 2026 post-monsoon cyclone season. The meeting was chaired by Dr. Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, Director General of Meteorology, IMD, and Third Vice-President of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO). Representatives from more than 30 organisations participated in the discussions, highlighting the importance of coordinated preparedness as India approaches a period when cyclonic disturbances can pose significant risks to coastal communities and maritime activities.

The launch also coincided with the anniversaries of two major cyclones, Phailin in 2013 and Hudhud in 2014, both of which crossed the Indian coast on October 12 in their respective years. India’s successful prediction of these powerful storms marked important milestones in the development of the country’s cyclone early-warning capabilities. The new DSS builds upon this experience by improving the accessibility, interpretation and operational use of meteorological information.

New IMD Decision Support System Integrates Cyclone and Marine Weather Information

The Cyclone Warning and Marine Weather Services Decision Support System provides a centralised platform through which users can access multiple categories of cyclone-related information. Instead of examining separate forecast charts, warning bulletins and specialised meteorological products, users can view information about developing storms and associated weather hazards through an interactive geographical interface. The platform presents complex forecast data in a visual format that helps users understand the possible geographical extent and intensity of severe weather conditions.

Developed using Web Geographic Information System technology, the DSS allows users to examine weather information in relation to geographical locations. Cyclone tracks, rainfall warnings, wind distribution and storm surge forecasts can be displayed through digital maps, enabling disaster managers and other stakeholders to interpret meteorological developments more effectively. This integrated approach supports a broader assessment of cyclone-related hazards rather than concentrating exclusively on the predicted movement of a storm.

An important objective of the system is to bridge the gap between scientific weather forecasting and practical decision-making. Although meteorological agencies generate extensive information about developing weather systems, the effectiveness of such forecasts depends on how clearly they reach the organisations and communities responsible for responding to potential dangers. By presenting essential information through a publicly accessible digital platform, IMD aims to strengthen situational awareness, encourage timely preparedness and support measures that reduce the loss of life and property.

Cyclone Tracking and Intensity Forecasts Provide Detailed Storm Information

One of the principal features of the new DSS is its ability to display observed and forecast cyclone tracks. Users can examine the recorded movement of a cyclonic system and compare it with its predicted future positions, providing a clearer understanding of how a storm is developing and where it may travel. Information about cyclone intensity accompanies these geographical representations, allowing users to assess the expected strength of a system as it approaches vulnerable regions.

The platform also incorporates a cone of uncertainty to communicate the uncertainty associated with cyclone track forecasts. Although modern numerical weather prediction systems have considerably improved the accuracy of cyclone forecasts, atmospheric conditions can cause storms to deviate from their predicted paths. The cone provides a visual representation of possible track positions based on forecast uncertainty, helping users understand that cyclone movement cannot be predicted with complete precision.

Importantly, the cone of uncertainty does not indicate the complete geographical extent of hazardous weather. Strong winds, heavy rainfall and storm surge may affect areas outside the forecast track cone, depending on the storm’s size, structure and environmental conditions. Disaster management authorities must therefore consider the full range of official warnings when planning protective measures. By presenting cyclone movement, intensity and forecast uncertainty together, the DSS helps users develop a more complete understanding of potential threats.

Wind Distribution and District-Wise Rainfall Warnings Improve Local Preparedness

The Decision Support System includes geographical visualisations of wind distribution associated with cyclonic storms. These maps help users understand how strong winds may be distributed around a developing cyclone and identify regions that could experience hazardous conditions. Such information is particularly important for coastal settlements, maritime activities, electricity infrastructure, transport networks and emergency response operations, where high winds can create serious safety risks and disrupt essential services.

District-wise rainfall warnings form another important component of the platform. Tropical cyclones frequently produce extensive rainfall over coastal and inland regions, sometimes causing flooding, waterlogging, landslides and damage to public infrastructure. By displaying rainfall warnings according to administrative districts, the system helps state and local authorities identify areas that may require additional preparedness measures. These forecasts can support decisions concerning public advisories, emergency arrangements and the protection of vulnerable communities.

The integration of wind and rainfall information with cyclone track forecasts offers a more comprehensive picture of the hazards associated with severe weather systems. A cyclone’s centre may remain some distance from a particular district while its rainbands and wind circulation still produce dangerous conditions in that region. Access to multiple forecast products within a single interface allows authorities to assess such risks more effectively and coordinate appropriate responses.

Storm Surge Forecasts Strengthen Coastal Flood Risk Assessment

Storm surge forecasting is a particularly significant feature of the new system because coastal inundation can become one of the most destructive consequences of a severe tropical cyclone. Storm surge occurs when strong winds and other storm-related factors raise seawater levels above their normal astronomical tide levels. When these elevated water levels reach low-lying coastal areas, they can cause extensive flooding, damage infrastructure, contaminate freshwater resources and threaten human lives.

The DSS incorporates storm surge warning information that can help authorities understand areas potentially exposed to coastal inundation. Such forecasts are especially relevant for densely populated coastal settlements, fishing villages, ports, industrial installations and transport infrastructure located near the shoreline. Access to geographically presented storm surge warnings can support evacuation planning and the identification of locations requiring additional protective measures.

Coastal flooding risks depend on several factors, including storm intensity, the direction of approaching winds, local coastal geography, seabed characteristics and the timing of high tides. Consequently, storm surge warnings must be considered alongside other official meteorological and disaster management information. By integrating these forecasts with cyclone tracks and wind distribution maps, the new platform strengthens the information available for coastal emergency preparedness.

River Catchment Rainfall Forecasts Support Flood Preparedness

The system also provides rainfall forecasts for river catchment areas, recognising that the effects of tropical cyclones can extend far beyond the coastline. Cyclonic systems frequently transport substantial moisture inland, producing heavy rainfall across river basins and contributing to flooding in regions distant from the point of landfall. Understanding where significant rainfall may occur is therefore essential for assessing broader hydrological risks associated with severe weather.

Catchment-level rainfall forecasts can help water resource authorities and disaster management agencies monitor developing conditions across river basins. Such information is particularly valuable when combined with river observations, reservoir conditions and specialised flood forecasting services. By identifying areas where heavy rainfall is expected, authorities can strengthen preparedness and coordinate the monitoring of vulnerable locations.

The inclusion of catchment rainfall forecasts also reflects a more integrated approach to weather-related disaster management. Cyclone preparedness cannot concentrate exclusively on coastal wind damage or storm surge because inland flooding can affect large populations, agricultural areas, roads and essential infrastructure. Bringing these different hazards together within a single decision support environment can improve communication between meteorological, water management and emergency response organisations.

WebGIS Technology Makes Complex Weather Forecasts Easier to Interpret

The technological foundation of the new DSS is its WebGIS architecture, which enables meteorological information to be displayed through interactive maps accessible over the internet. Geographic Information Systems combine location-based information with visual representations, allowing users to examine patterns and relationships that may be difficult to understand through conventional text bulletins or numerical tables alone.

In the case of cyclone forecasting, WebGIS technology allows different warning products to be viewed within a common geographical framework. Disaster management personnel can examine the likely movement of a cyclone while simultaneously reviewing district rainfall warnings, wind distribution and coastal storm surge information. This visual integration helps users understand how several weather hazards may affect the same region and supports more informed operational planning.

The public-facing nature of the platform represents another important feature. Advanced meteorological information becomes more useful when it can be accessed by government agencies, professional users and interested citizens without requiring specialised forecasting software. The DSS therefore contributes to IMD’s efforts to make scientific weather information more accessible while strengthening the relationship between forecasting services and the communities that depend on them.

Coastal Communities and Fishermen Gain Access to Integrated Marine Weather Information

India’s extensive coastline supports millions of people whose livelihoods and daily activities depend on marine and coastal conditions. Fishing communities, maritime transport operators, port authorities and coastal businesses are particularly sensitive to cyclonic storms, strong winds and dangerous sea conditions. Reliable marine weather information is therefore essential for protecting lives, supporting safe operations and reducing the disruption caused by severe weather.

The new DSS provides an additional means of accessing official cyclone and marine weather information through a common digital platform. Fishing communities and maritime stakeholders can use the available forecasts to improve awareness of developing weather systems and understand the geographical distribution of potential hazards. The system complements IMD’s established marine weather bulletins and official advisories, which remain important for decisions concerning fishing operations and navigation.

For coastal residents, the availability of interactive forecast maps can improve understanding of cyclone movement, rainfall warnings and storm surge threats. Public access to reliable information can encourage early preparedness, particularly when warnings are supported by clear instructions from state and district authorities. The effectiveness of the system will depend not only on its technical capabilities but also on its continued use alongside established public warning and disaster response mechanisms.

New Platform Helps Disaster Management Agencies Coordinate Emergency Responses

Cyclone preparedness requires cooperation among numerous organisations responsible for weather forecasting, emergency response, public safety, infrastructure protection and relief operations. The new DSS supports this coordination by providing a shared source of meteorological information that can be examined by agencies with different operational responsibilities. Such an approach helps reduce the difficulties that arise when organisations rely on separate information products or interpret developing weather conditions independently.

Disaster management authorities can use the platform to review cyclone forecasts and assess the potential distribution of rainfall, strong winds and storm surge. State and district administrations can examine the warnings relevant to their areas while preparing emergency arrangements and public advisories. Defence organisations, coastal authorities and response agencies can also use the meteorological information to strengthen their understanding of evolving conditions when planning activities within their respective responsibilities.

The platform is designed to support decisions rather than replace the established authority of official warning bulletins and emergency instructions. Forecasts can change as new observations become available, making regular monitoring essential during rapidly developing weather situations. By improving access to updated meteorological information, the DSS can help agencies maintain situational awareness and coordinate their responses more effectively.

Launch Commemorates India’s Successful Forecasting of Cyclones Phailin and Hudhud

The dedication of the new platform on October 12 carries particular significance in the history of India’s cyclone forecasting services. On October 12, 2013, Very Severe Cyclonic Storm Phailin crossed the coast of Odisha, posing a major threat to coastal communities and infrastructure. Exactly one year later, on October 12, 2014, Very Severe Cyclonic Storm Hudhud struck the Andhra Pradesh coast, causing widespread destruction, particularly around Visakhapatnam.

IMD’s successful prediction of these two powerful storms represented important milestones in the development of India’s tropical cyclone warning capabilities. The forecasting efforts demonstrated the value of improved meteorological observations, numerical prediction techniques and coordinated warning dissemination. They also reinforced the importance of cooperation between scientific institutions and disaster management agencies in protecting vulnerable populations.

The experience gained from these cyclones contributed to the continuing improvement of India’s early-warning services and received international recognition. The launch of the new DSS on the anniversary of these events highlights the progress made in translating meteorological science into practical disaster preparedness. It also reflects the continuing need to refine forecasting systems as coastal populations, infrastructure and economic activities expand.

IMD Reviews Preparedness for October–December 2026 Cyclone Season

The DSS was launched during IMD’s Pre-Cyclone Exercise Meeting for the post-monsoon season extending from October to December 2026. This period is important for cyclone preparedness because the Bay of Bengal and Arabian Sea can experience cyclonic disturbances capable of developing into severe tropical storms. Such systems may threaten coastal communities, disrupt maritime operations and produce heavy rainfall over adjoining inland areas.

IMD has organised pre-cyclone exercise meetings twice annually since 2008 to strengthen preparedness before the country’s principal cyclone seasons. These meetings allow participating organisations to review warning arrangements, assess the implementation of previous recommendations and discuss operational requirements. They also provide opportunities for scientific agencies and disaster management authorities to examine improvements in forecasting services and identify challenges that may affect emergency preparedness.

During the October 2026 meeting, IMD officials presented developments in cyclone warning and marine weather services. Participants also reviewed the Action Taken Report concerning recommendations made during the previous Pre-Cyclone Exercise Meeting in April. This review process supports continuity between successive preparedness exercises and allows stakeholders to assess progress on identified operational requirements.

More Than 30 Organisations Participate in National Cyclone Preparedness Exercise

The meeting witnessed participation from approximately 230 representatives of more than 30 organisations, demonstrating the extensive coordination required for cyclone preparedness in India. Of the participants, 180 attended online and 50 joined in person. The gathering brought together representatives from meteorological institutions, disaster response agencies, defence organisations, scientific bodies, coastal administrations and several Central Government ministries.

Major participating organisations included the National Disaster Management Authority, National Disaster Response Force, Ministry of Home Affairs, Indian Navy, Indian Air Force, Indian Coast Guard and Central Water Commission. Scientific and technical participation included representatives from the India Meteorological Department, National Centre for Medium Range Weather Forecasting and the Indian Institute of Technology. The participation of these institutions helped bring forecasting expertise, operational requirements and disaster response experience into a common discussion.

Representatives from the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Ministry of Heavy Industries, Department of Consumer Affairs and Directorate General of Lighthouses and Lightships also participated. Their involvement reflected the wider implications of severe cyclones for shipping, industrial activity, supply chains, public infrastructure and essential services. The meeting provided an opportunity to examine how meteorological information can support preparedness across these interconnected sectors.

Coastal States and Union Territories Strengthen Cyclone Preparedness Coordination

State and Union Territory representatives formed an important part of the national preparedness exercise. Participating administrations included West Bengal, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, Goa, Maharashtra and Gujarat, along with the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep, Puducherry and other Union Territories. Fisheries departments and disaster management authorities also contributed to the discussions, reflecting their responsibilities for protecting coastal populations and supporting emergency preparedness.

India’s coastal regions face different cyclone-related challenges because of variations in geography, population distribution, infrastructure and marine conditions. States along the Bay of Bengal must remain prepared for tropical cyclones that can produce destructive winds, heavy rainfall and coastal flooding. Western coastal regions face risks from severe weather systems developing over the Arabian Sea, while island territories encounter additional challenges associated with their geographical isolation and dependence on maritime connectivity.

These differences make coordination between national forecasting agencies and local administrations particularly important. District authorities need information suited to their geographical and operational requirements, while scientific institutions benefit from understanding how their forecasts are used in real-world situations. The new DSS supports this exchange by providing location-specific meteorological information through an accessible digital interface.

Indian Navy, Air Force and Coast Guard Contribute to Disaster Preparedness

The participation of the Indian Navy, Indian Air Force and Indian Coast Guard highlighted the role of the Armed Forces and maritime security organisations in supporting national disaster response arrangements. Severe cyclones can disrupt transport networks, damage infrastructure and isolate affected communities, creating circumstances in which specialised aviation, maritime and logistical capabilities may be required to support civil authorities.

The Indian Coast Guard has responsibilities connected with maritime safety and search-and-rescue operations, while the Indian Navy possesses maritime resources that can support disaster relief when deployed under appropriate arrangements. The Indian Air Force also maintains air transport and helicopter capabilities that can assist with emergency movement of personnel, supplies and relief materials. Timely and reliable weather information is important for planning such operations safely and effectively.

The presence of these organisations at IMD’s preparedness meeting allowed operational stakeholders to discuss forecasting requirements and coordination mechanisms before the cyclone season. Such engagement helps establish a common understanding of the information needed during severe weather events and strengthens institutional readiness for coordinated action.

Live Demonstration Highlights Practical Applications of the New DSS

A live demonstration of the Cyclone Warning and Marine Weather Services DSS formed an important part of the meeting. IMD officials showcased the platform’s interactive features, including observed and predicted cyclone tracks, intensity forecasts, the cone of uncertainty, wind distribution, district-wise rainfall warnings and storm surge information. The demonstration illustrated how these different meteorological products can be examined through a common geographical interface.

Participants were able to review the platform from the perspective of organisations responsible for interpreting weather information and taking operational decisions. The demonstration was followed by discussions in which stakeholders offered comments, suggestions and feedback concerning the system’s functionality and practical applications. These inputs are intended to help IMD improve the platform and strengthen its usefulness for different categories of users.

The engagement also demonstrated the value of involving operational agencies during the development and deployment of public weather information services. Forecasting systems can become more effective when their design reflects the requirements of the authorities and communities that rely on them. Continued dialogue between IMD and participating organisations can therefore support improvements in the accessibility and application of cyclone warnings.

Public Access to IMD’s Cyclone Warning Decision Support System

The new DSS is available through the official websites of the India Meteorological Department and the Regional Specialised Meteorological Centre in New Delhi. The dedicated WebGIS platform provides access to interactive cyclone and marine weather information, allowing users to examine available forecasts and warnings through a geographical interface. Its public availability is intended to make important meteorological information easier to understand and support wider awareness of potential weather hazards.

The system is particularly relevant for coastal residents, fishing communities, maritime operators, disaster management personnel and government agencies responsible for public safety. However, weather forecasts are subject to revision as atmospheric conditions evolve and new observations become available. Users should therefore continue monitoring current IMD bulletins and follow official advisories and instructions issued by the appropriate disaster management authorities.

Making forecast information available through an interactive platform represents an important development in public weather communication. When scientific information is presented clearly and reaches the intended users, it can support better preparedness and more timely protective action. The DSS strengthens this process by connecting different categories of cyclone-related information within a single accessible system.

Digital Weather Services Strengthen India’s Early-Warning Infrastructure

India has made sustained investments in improving meteorological observations, weather prediction capabilities and public warning services. Advances in satellite monitoring, radar observations, numerical weather prediction and digital communication have strengthened the scientific foundation of cyclone forecasting. However, the effectiveness of these capabilities ultimately depends on whether forecasts can be translated into decisions that protect people and infrastructure.

The new Decision Support System addresses this requirement by combining forecast information with interactive geographical visualisation. Its integrated approach allows different users to examine hazards according to their operational needs while maintaining access to official meteorological information. This is particularly valuable during severe weather situations when authorities must quickly assess several related threats, including wind damage, heavy rainfall, coastal inundation and inland flooding.

The platform also supports India’s wider efforts to improve disaster resilience through stronger early-warning mechanisms and closer institutional coordination. By connecting scientific forecasting with practical applications, IMD is strengthening the role of meteorological services in public safety, maritime operations, infrastructure protection and disaster preparedness.

IMD’s New Cyclone Warning System Advances India’s Disaster-Resilience Capabilities

The launch of the Cyclone Warning and Marine Weather Services Decision Support System on October 12, 2026, marks another important step in India’s development of modern weather forecasting and disaster preparedness infrastructure. The integration of cyclone tracks, intensity forecasts, wind distribution, rainfall warnings, storm surge information and river catchment forecasts provides a comprehensive digital resource for understanding severe weather hazards.

The system’s introduction during the national pre-cyclone preparedness meeting reinforced the importance of cooperation among meteorological institutions, disaster management authorities, defence forces, coastal administrations and scientific organisations. Participation by more than 30 institutions demonstrated the collective effort required to transform accurate weather forecasts into effective preparedness and response measures.

Building on India’s achievements in forecasting major cyclones such as Phailin and Hudhud, the new DSS strengthens the accessibility and practical application of meteorological information. Its interactive design supports better understanding of weather hazards, while its integration with existing warning services can assist authorities and communities in making timely decisions.

Through improved digital forecasting services, stronger institutional coordination and wider public access to official weather information, India continues to advance towards a more disaster-resilient future in which scientific innovation plays an increasingly important role in protecting lives, livelihoods and coastal infrastructure.

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References

1. Press Information Bureau, Government of India
Ministry of Earth Sciences
IMD Dedicates Cyclone Warning and Marine Weather Services Decision Support System to the Nation on 12th October, 2026
Published: October 12, 2026, 10:21 PM
www.pib.gov.in

2. India Meteorological Department (IMD)
Ministry of Earth Sciences, Government of India
Official Cyclone Warnings, Weather Forecasts and Marine Meteorological Services
mausam.imd.gov.in

3. Regional Specialised Meteorological Centre (RSMC), New Delhi
India Meteorological Department
Tropical Cyclone Monitoring, Forecasting and Warning Services
rsmcnewdelhi.imd.gov.in

4. India Meteorological Department
Cyclone Warning and Marine Weather Services Decision Support System
Official WebGIS Platform
dss.imd.gov.in/dwr_img/GIS/marine.php

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