Thu Mar 20 11:54:05 UTC 2025: ## Hyderabad Scientists Unravel Secrets of Cyclone Tauktae’s Rapid Intensification

**HYDERABAD, March 20, 2025** – Scientists at the Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) in Hyderabad have identified the key factors contributing to the rapid intensification of Cyclone Tauktae, the devastating 2021 storm that claimed over 120 lives and impacted 1.1 million people. Their research, published in *Nature Scientific Reports*, reveals that unusually high atmospheric and land-based heating played a crucial role.

Unlike previous cyclones where ocean conditions were the primary driver, Tauktae’s intensification saw a more significant contribution from the atmosphere (54%) compared to the ocean (46%). Dr. R. Harikumar and G.G. Zahid, lead authors of the study, found that high humidity levels, elevated sea surface temperatures, and exceptionally warm, moist soil along the west coast fuelled the cyclone’s growth. The land’s contribution to atmospheric heating further enhanced the storm’s survival and intensification.

The study also highlights the influence of La Niña, a negative Indian Ocean Dipole, and other atmospheric oscillations in creating high relative humidity conditions which exacerbated the impact of Tauktae. A notable increase in relative humidity, ocean heat content, and sea surface temperature over the past decade (2011-2021) further supports this conclusion.

The researchers developed a new methodology to quantify the relative roles of ocean and atmospheric conditions in cyclone development. This approach offers valuable insights for cyclone classification, improving forecasting, and developing effective adaptation strategies, particularly for India’s vulnerable coastal communities. The findings emphasize the need for resilient infrastructure and community planning to mitigate the impacts of increasingly intense cyclones.

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