World Oceans Day: Why and how has the risk of hurricanes increased in the Arabian Sea?

 Nature' last year and 'Taukte' this year. For the second year in a row, the Konkan has been hit by a cyclone before the monsoon. The effects of both these storms have been felt far from the coast.

Considering the North Indian Ocean region, ERVs are usually seen forming hurricanes for the first time in the Bay of Bengal at the end of summer. But this year, the first hurricane of the season has formed in the Arabian Sea.

Not only that, but since 2019, the number of hurricanes rising in the Arabian Sea and their intensity has increased.

But is the Arabian Sea really that turbulent? What should be the reasons for this?

Hurricanes rising in the Arabian Sea

The formation of a hurricane depends on two things. Seawater, especially surface temperature and wind direction.

You can watch this BBC Marathi video to know how cyclones are formed.

But in short, if the temperature at the top of the water rises, it evaporates and moves upwards. So a low pressure belt is formed there. Then the cool air from the surrounding atmosphere begins to flow in a circular direction.

Considering the Indian subcontinent, the Bay of Bengal is shallow in many places. "The Bay of Bengal has a high water surface temperature. It is a hot sea. So there are very strong cyclones," said Dr. Krishna Kumar, head of the Indian Meteorological Department. Mrityunjaya Mahapatra says.

The Arabian Sea is relatively deep, with relatively cold water. As a result, fewer cyclones form in the Arabian Sea than in the Bay of Bengal, and their intensity is lower, experts say.

But in the last three or four years, the picture has changed.

This is the 11th hurricane to hit the Arabian Sea in the last three years. It is also the second most severe cyclonic storm to form in the Arabian Sea in the last three years.

In 2018, three hurricanes, Sagar, Mekanu and Luban, formed in the Arabian Sea. But all three storms turned westward towards Yemen and Oman.

In the year 2019, a record number of storms were set in the Arabian Sea, and in the same season, five cyclones were recorded here namely Vayu, Hikka, Kyaar, Maha, Pawan. Two of the cyclones, Vayu and Maha, moved north to Gujarat-Pakistan.

In early June 2020, a natural cyclone hit the shores of Shrivardhan-Diveagar in Raigad district of Maharashtra. In November, Hurricane Gati hit Somalia.

After nature, cyclone Taukte has washed away the Konkan coast within a year.

Why is the Arabian Sea rough?

These rising hurricanes in the Arabian Sea have also caught the attention of the world. According to experts, the temperature in the Arabian Sea is rising, and that is why the number and intensity of hurricanes are increasing there.

According to a report released by the Indian Meteorological Department in 2019, the surface temperature of the Arabian Sea has increased significantly in the last decade. According to the report, the surface temperature of the Arabian Sea rose by 0.36 degrees Celsius in 2019 compared to 1981-2010.

For the formation of a hurricane, the surface temperature of the ERV sea has to be 27 degrees Celsius. When the hurricane struck, temperatures in the Arabian Sea rose to 32 degrees Celsius, according to meteorological records.

In fact, climate change is likely to change the number and nature of storms around the world, experts say. There is also a paradox here.

The surface temperature of the sea has to be high to form a hurricane. But global warming is causing sea levels to rise. Also, in some places, melting glaciers are mixing with the sea, which is likely to lower the surface temperature. Some scientists believe that this could reduce the number of hurricanes.

For example, as the temperature of the Arabian Sea rises, the surface temperature in the Bay of Bengal may decrease. That is why the intensity of storms may increase in the Arabian Sea instead of the Bay of Bengal.

Researcher H. from Japan. Murakami, M. Sugi and a. In a 2012 research paper, Kitoh said that the frequency of cyclones in the Arabian Sea would increase by 46 per cent, while in the Bay of Bengal it would decrease by 31 per cent.

Abhijeet Ghorpade, editor of Bhavatal magazine and an environmentalist, says, "It would not be appropriate to make a definite prediction of what the picture will be like in the coming three years. But the next step must be taken keeping in mind the changing nature of hurricanes in the Arabian Sea."

Scientists, however, do not seem to be at odds with the increasing intensity of hurricanes.

Mumbai and Konkan threatened?

Even if a cyclone hits the Arabian Sea, it is less likely to hit Mumbai directly.

"Equatorial winds in the Northern Hemisphere blow from east to west, ie from Mumbai to the sea. The resulting cyclone moves further and hits the coast of Gujarat. Even if cyclonic conditions are created in the Arabian Sea, such storms often move away from Mumbai," says Abhijeet Ghorpade.

If you think of any storm in the oceans on earth, this is the picture you see. Although the storm in the Arabian Sea did not hit Mumbai directly, it could cause major damage in Mumbai and the Konkan, as cyclones Fayan in 2009 and Taukte in 2009 have shown.

Researchers also predict that sea levels in Mumbai will rise by 1.8 meters this century due to rising sea levels and global warming. Against this backdrop, even a low-intensity cyclone can cause major damage to the city and the Konkan coast.

Writer and novelist Amitabh Ghosh, who writes extensively on the environment, recalls in an interview with the BBC that "between 1998 and 2001, three cyclones hit the Indian subcontinent, killing 17,000 people."

In the ensuing twenty years, many improvements were made in the meteorological department and administrative systems. So now, despite the big storms, the damage seems to be relatively low. But if a storm hits Mumbai directly, there is still a fear of huge losses.

World Oceans Day: Do you know 'Angria Bank' coral island in the Konkan Sea?

 Blue sea, coral reefs and colorful swimming fish. When you think of such places under the sea, you can see places like the Great Barrier Reef or the Andaman-Lakshadweep in India.

But even in our Konkan, there is a place that is somewhat parallel to the beach. Her name is Angria Bank.

Known as Sarkhel Kanhoji Angre, the chief of the Maratha Armory, this place is a treasure hidden in the sea.

Surrounded by a variety of fish and corals, this place is a magical underwater world.

This is an overview of what Angria Bank is like, how the sea in Konkan has become prosperous because of it and what efforts are being made for the conservation of this place.

How was Angria Bank formed?

Angria Bank is a type of coral reef, about 110 km off the coast of Malvan and 105 km off the coast of Ratnagiri.

It is an underwater plateau. Its size is about 2011 square kilometers.

The Angria Bank is relatively shallower than the surrounding sea and has a depth of at least 24 meters to an average of 28 meters. The depth of the sea increases on both sides of the Angria Bank and in some places it is as deep as four hundred meters.

This region is part of the continental shelf. This means that this part was once on the water during the ice age. Then, about 11,650 years ago, when the last ice age ended, sea level rose and the area went under water.

Over the thousands of years since then, coral reefs and marine life have gradually flourished, and this coral island has taken shape.

At present, there are about one and a half thousand square kilometers of coral habitat. This means a slightly larger space than Mumbai.

Why is Angria Bank important?

Angria Bank is very important in terms of history, culture and biodiversity, says marine biologist Vardhan Patankar. Patankar has done research on the corals of Angria Bank.

"The area was used by Sarkhel Kanhoji Angre, the head of the Maratha armada, in the 18th century. "

That is why this area is named Kanhoji Angre. I mean, people have known about this place since time immemorial.

But how rich Angria Bank is in terms of biodiversity has become even clearer with recent campaigns. Marine biologists from the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation's IISDA in Malvan, a scuba diving training institute, the Kandalvan division of the state government, and CMLRE in Kerala, an organization under the Ministry of Economy, have conducted research in the area.

Vardhan Patankar had led the team of Wildlife Conservation Society of India in the 2019 expedition. The team had dived in the area 66 times in ten days and recorded about one and a half hundred species.

"The biodiversity here is unique. We have found many species like sharks, more eels, cooper fish and also observed coral colonies.

"Of course, only ten percent of the research has been done so far, and much more remains to be done."

Birthplace of fish

The coral habitat and the somewhat protected area of ​​the open sea are home to fish. In a way, it has become the birthplace of fish.

Fishing in Konkan also depends on the biodiversity of Angria Bank, says Patankar.

"Mechanical fishing trawlers cannot come here. This has given more protection to the fish. The fish come here for breeding and that is why Angria Bank is a big reason for the abundance of fish we get."

Thousands of people in the coastal region of Maharashtra depend on this fish for their livelihood and a large section of the population gets essential protein from it. So if the biodiversity on Angria Bank is destroyed, it will affect all of them.

Problems in the protection of Angria Bank

Due to global warming, Angria Bank, like other coral islands around the world, has a sword hanging over it, and environmentalists feel that efforts should be made to save the coral.

Patankar says, "There is a naval presence in the region. There were also proposals for drilling for oil and natural gas. All this poses a threat to the corals on the Angria Bank. But at present, the site is not protected by law."

"But the protection of Angria Bank is needed as it is the only coral reef left in Maharashtra and it would be unfortunate to allow it to be destroyed."

After many years of efforts, last year the Maharashtra government had given the green light to the proposal to declare this place as a protected area. With the consent of the Central Government, Angria Bank can get sanctuary status.

If that happened then it would be a big step forward. This is because Angria Bank falls in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of India.

Twelve nautical miles (22 kilometers) of sea is considered to be the maritime boundary of the country. The area up to 200 nautical miles from the coast is considered to be the exclusive economic zone of the country, which has the right to maritime resources and can be mined here for natural gas or oil.

Angria Bank could be the first marine sanctuary in the EEZ in India, after which other sites in the area could also get legal protection

      

There is also talk of developing Angria Bank in terms of tourism. But while doing such development, we have to control how many people go here, says Patankar.

But you can conserve this place without going to sea. For this, emphasis should be laid on prevention of sea pollution.

Patankar says, "We often forget about the sea or we just throw everything straight into the sea. But before we do that, it can make a difference if we stop and think a little.

"The use of plastics has increased, especially during the Covid period. But it is also important that the waste is disposed of properly. So when throwing away masks, it is important to think about the effect it will have on marine life."

Here Is What the Shape of Your Nose Reveals About Your Personality

 

There are so many types of physical traits such as your eyes, nose, mouth, and face that make you unique. It’s often said that the first thing people notice about you is your eyes but every physical trait defines the type of person you are.

There are many types of noses but the shape of your nose falls into one of these 8 shapes and says a lot about your personality. Also, we should love everything about ourselves even if we wish our nose was smaller, or bigger, or thinner. Every physical trait you were born with defines the type of person you are and everyone should be proud of their bodies. Here are 8 types of nose shapes and what it says about your personality.

1) Types of Noses: The Nubian nose.

While the bridge of the nose is straight, the lower end of the nose points downwards. Like a branch laden with fruits, this type of nose draws your eyes towards the lips. People with this type of nose are known to be quite curious and expressive. They incline towards cautious optimism and are extremely interested in learning new things and having new experiences. Their humility is what sets them apart from the rest and the way they communicate their thoughts is nothing short of impressive. Some celebrities with a Nubian nose type include former US President Barack Obama and Beyonce.

2) The Greek nose.

The ancient Greek sculptures gave this type of nose its name. Narrow in length, this type of nose is characteristically straight and pointed. People with this type of nose are known to be prudent and extremely practical. Loyalty is another feature that defines the people with this type of nose but the one quality that is true to them is their sense of secrecy. They would rather die than let something, which isn’t supposed to, spill out of their mouth, making them one of the few people one could trust with secrets. Further, they would never open themselves to those who haven’t earned their trust. Some celebrities with a Greek nose type include actress Jennifer Aniston and Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas.

3) The hook nose.

Associated with a bird’s beak, this type of nose is bent downwards from the base of the nose bone to the tip. People with this type of nose are known to be opinionated, thoughtful and deep. They defend their views passionately and are unafraid of taking risks. But the quality that truly sets them apart is their self-sacrificing nature. Their thought and wisdom place them in a unique position where they are diplomatic, creative and yet self-effacing. Some celebrities with a hook nose type include actress Barbra Streisand and Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh.

4) Types of Noses: The arched nose.

Curved from the nasal bone like the hooknose, it is different because it is noticeably pointed at the tip. People with this type of nose make extremely good managers. They are driven, efficient, organized but most of all, capable of leading by example. They are closely connected to their professions but care deeply about those they value in life. The one thing they detest is disloyalty and can rein hell if betrayed. Some celebrities with an arched nose type include actresses Meryl Streep and Julia Louis-Dreyfus.

5) The button nose.

Short and dainty, it is one of the most common types of noses. Approximately 13% of the general population has the types of noses commonly called a button nose or celestial nose. But there’s nothing common about the people with this nose. Determined, strong-willed and spontaneous, they are usually involved in a lot of various activities. They are efficient and use their time with the utmost planning and care. Their decisions are usually based on their gut feeling but they grow to trust which urge to pursue and which to leave. The result being; they often get what they want. Some celebrities with a button nose type include actress Carey Mulligan and English footballer Wayne Rooney.

6) The straight nose.

Wide nostrils with a round tip, this nose is straight and flatter than the rest. People with this nose type are known to be in control of their emotions. They are good at reading emotions as well, making them good empaths. They are extremely patient and calm but they don’t appreciate unsolicited provocations. The only time they lose their temper is when they feel the safety of their loved ones threatened and in that case, they are known to personify the wrath of hell. Some celebrities with a straight nose include actress Keira Knightley and recording artist Nicole Scherzinger.

7) The concave nose.

A definitive small arch on the nose bone, it looks petite and sharp with the tip pointing slightly outwards. People with this nose are on the sensitive side of life. They feel emotions deeply and feel hurt quite easily but they never reveal it. They are the kind of people who would bear a burden with a smile and yet be the first to help if asked. Altruism is the hallmark of people with this nose. Some celebrities with a concave nose include actresses Rooney Mara and Samara Weaving.

8) Types of Noses: The crooked nose.

Contrary to what the name suggests, people with a crooked nose are known to be one of the most simple and straightforward of all. These types of noses may even appear broken but they provide an individual with character and may even become a famous quality about them. The bridge of the nose stands out while the tip is rounded. They are good listeners and observers and they are the kind of people who would rather understand than judge. They, hence, are great friends and partners as they usually think carefully and cautiously before forming an opinion. Some celebrities with a crooked nose but are prettier than ever include model Molly Sims and actor Owen Wilson.

Whatever type of nose you have, be happy with it. You’re special and one of a kind!

There are other things that can determine your type of personality traits. In fact, even how you perceive colors can determine your personality. Please share these 8 types of noses and how the shape of your nose can determine your personality with your friends and family.