Meteorological Characteristics and Socio-Economic Consequences of Tropical Cyclones in the North Indian Ocean Basin during 2018

The coastal regions surrounding the Bay of Bengal (BoB) and the Arabian Sea (ARS) are among the most densely populated areas in the world, supporting more than 2.31 billion people. With a combined coastline exceeding 11,146 km, these regions are highly vulnerable to tropical cyclone activity, which frequently causes significant socio-economic and environmental impacts. This study investigates all tropical disturbances that reached depression intensity (wind speed ≥ 25 kt h⁻¹) over the North Indian Ocean during 2018. A total of fourteen such systems were identified in the BoB and ARS, of which seven intensified into Cyclonic Storms (CS) with wind speeds exceeding 40 kt h⁻¹.

Special emphasis is given to the cyclonic storms Mekunu, Luban, and Sagar over the Arabian Sea, and Daye, Titli, Gaja, and Phethai over the Bay of Bengal. Among these seven storms, Mekunu, Titli, Gaja, and Phethai further intensified into Very Severe Cyclonic Storms (VSCS), causing widespread damage and disruption. The study examines the meteorological characteristics, intensity evolution, tracks, and destructive potential of all fourteen depression systems. Furthermore, an attempt has been made to explore possible links between solar activity and tropical cyclone development over the North Indian Ocean basin.

In addition to the physical characteristics of these weather systems, the study evaluates their socio-economic consequences, including estimated property damage, infrastructure losses, and impacts on affected populations. The findings contribute to a better understanding of tropical cyclone behavior in the North Indian Ocean and provide insights that may improve future forecasting, disaster preparedness, and risk mitigation strategies for vulnerable coastal communities.