Discuss the meaning of colour-coded weather warnings for cyclone prone areas given by India Meteorological Department. (Answer in 150 words)

The IMD colour code communicates the likely severity and administrative urgency of a cyclonic weather system, enabling anticipatory action rather than merely describing current weather.

Meaning of the codes

• Green: no warning; conditions are being monitored and no significant adverse weather is expected.
• Yellow: be aware; authorities and the public should remain updated because weather may affect normal activity.
• Orange: be prepared; severe weather is likely, requiring mobilisation of emergency services, protection of assets and possible evacuation planning.
• Red: take action; extremely severe weather is expected or occurring, demanding immediate response, evacuation of exposed populations and strict compliance with official advice.

Utility

The codes support last-mile communication, district disaster-management plans, fishermen advisories, port operations and public safety. They must be read with forecast track, wind speed, storm surge and rainfall bulletins; colour alone does not predict local damage.

Green; yellow; orange; red; early warning; evacuation; storm surge; last-mile communication.