Sea Surface Temperature (SST) is generally high during this time of year. However, at present they are 2-3 degrees above normal hot temperatures. This means that there is more heat and moisture in the atmosphere, which helps cyclonic storms to maintain their strength for a longer period. Threshold value for formation of cyclone is 26 degree Celsius, but at present SST -32 are in the range of °C. This increase can be attributed to the increase in ocean warming due to climate change. According to the IPCC, the sea surface temperature has increased and it is expected to increase further in the future. The fastest surface warming has occurred in the Indian Ocean. As a result, the intensity of severe tropical cyclones is expected to increase in the warmer climate. Overall, the presence of cyclonic storm Biperjoy in the Arabian Sea and its impact on the Southwest Monsoon is clear.

(The author is an environmentalist)

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