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why are different names given to the cyclones?
Hurricane-like storms are called by different names in the different regions of the world. For example, the name "hurricane" is given to systems that develop over the Atlantic or the eastern Pacific Oceans. In the western North Pacific and Philippines, these systems are called "typhoons" while in the Indian and South Pacific Ocean, they are called "cyclones". The main reason why cyclones are named is to differentiate them from each other. Naming cyclones allows meteorologists to distinguish between them when they are tracking them, and allows people to know which ones are most likely to affect them at any given time. It allows for better communication between forecasters and the general public, and eliminates confusion.

The process of naming cyclones involves several countries in the region and is done under the aegis of the World Meteorological Organization. For the Indian Ocean region, deliberations for naming cyclones began in 2000 and a formula was agreed upon in 2004. Eight countries in the region - Bangladesh, India, Maldives, Myanmar, Oman, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Thailand - all contributed a set of names which are assigned sequentially whenever a cyclonic storm develops. The name Nilam was contributed by Pakistan, while the cyclone that occurred last week was called Murjan - a name that came from Oman. The next in line are Mahasen (from Sri Lanka) and Phailin (from Thailand).

The list of names India has added to the database includes Agni, Akash, Bijli, Jal (cyclones which have all occurred since 2004). The Indian names in the queue are Leher, Megh, Sagar and Vayu, while those suggested by Pakistan include Nilofar, Titli and Bulbul.


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