IMPS COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING &

TECHNOLOGY

NAME - DEBESHRA BASAK

DEPARTMENT – CIVIL ENGINEERING

YEAR – 3rd (5th SEM)

ROLL NO – 17001322043
SUBJECT NAME - ENGINEERING HYDROLOGY
TOPIC – CYCLONIC PRECIPITATION
PAPER CODE – CE (PC) 502
TEACHER’S NAME – PRADIP SEN
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

I would like to convey my heartfelt gratitude to our Subject Teacher Mr. PRADIP SEN Sir
for his tremendous support and assistance in the completion of my project. I would
also like to thank our Principle Sir, DR. SUDIPTA DAS for providing me with this
wonderful opportunity to work on a project with the topic ‘CYCLONIC PRECIPITATION’.
The completion of the project would not have been possible without their help and
insights.

ABSTRACT

Cyclonic precipitation is a meteorological phenomenon characterized by the formation

of heavy rainfall in regions affected by cyclonic systems. This abstract provides a
concise overview of cyclonic precipitation, highlighting its mechanisms, factors
influencing its intensity, and the significant implications it carries for various aspects of
human life and the environment.
Cyclonic precipitation refers to the excessive rainfall that occurs in regions
affected by cyclonic weather systems. These systems, known as hurricanes, typhoons, or
cyclones, are formidable meteorological phenomena characterized by low-pressure
centers, powerful winds, and the convergence of warm, moist air masses. Cyclonic
precipitation can lead to devastating flooding, landslides, and property damage,
making it crucial to understand its dynamics and consequences.

INTRODUCTION
The mechanics of cyclonic precipitation involve the ascent of warm, moisture-laden air
within the cyclonic system. As this air rises and subsequently cools, it undergoes a
process of condensation. This condensation leads to the formation of clouds, ultimately
resulting in the release of moisture in the form of rainfall or, in colder conditions,
snowfall. Several critical factors influence the intensity, duration, and extent of cyclonic
precipitation events. These factors encompass variables such as the temperature of the
ocean waters beneath the cyclone, the size and speed of the cyclonic system, and its
interactions with other atmospheric features. The variability in these factors makes
cyclonic precipitation a dynamic and sometimes unpredictable phenomenon, capable of
causing devastating flooding, damage, and disruptions in the regions it affects. The
implications of cyclonic precipitation are multifaceted. Foremost, these events pose a
significant threat to human life and infrastructure, often leading to widespread flooding,
landslides, and storm surges. To mitigate these risks, communities in cyclone-prone
areas must establish effective preparedness measures, early warning systems, and
evacuation plans.
 TOPIC CONTENT
Formation of Cyclones:
1. Warm Ocean Waters: Cyclones primarily form over warm ocean waters with sea
surface temperatures of at least 26°C (79°F). Warm water provides the necessary
heat and moisture to fuel the storm.
2. Atmospheric Instability: Cyclone formation is favored by a vertically unstable
atmosphere. This means that as warm, moist air rises from the ocean surface, it
continues to rise due to its buoyancy, creating a low-pressure area at the surface.
3. Coriolis Effect: For cyclones to develop rotation, they must form at least 5
degrees away from the equator. This is due to the Coriolis Effect, which causes
the rotation of air masses in different directions in the Northern and Southern
Hemispheres.
4. Disturbance: Cyclones often start as small disturbances, such as tropical waves
or low-pressure systems. These disturbances can gradually intensify as they move
over warm waters.

Characteristics of Cyclones:
1. Low-Pressure Center: Cyclones are centered around a region of low
atmospheric pressure, known as the eye or the center of the storm.
2. Spiraling Wind Patterns: Cyclonic winds circulate counterclockwise in the
Northern Hemisphere and clockwise in the Southern Hemisphere. The strongest
winds are found near the center of the storm, in the eyewall.
3. Eyewall: The eyewall is the region of most intense convection and rainfall
surrounding the eye. It often contains the highest wind speeds and heaviest
precipitation.
4. Eye: In the center of the cyclone is the eye, which is typically a calm and clear
area with light winds. The eye can vary in size but is generally circular.
5. Rainbands: Cyclones often have spiral bands of clouds and precipitation
extending outward from the center. These rainbands can bring heavy rainfall and
gusty winds to areas far from the eye.
6. Intensification and Dissipation: Cyclones can intensify as they gain energy from
warm ocean waters and weaken as they move over cooler waters or encounter
wind shear (changes in wind speed and direction with altitude).
7. Storm Surge: Cyclones can generate storm surges, which are elevated sea levels
caused by the strong winds and low pressure. Storm surges can lead to coastal
flooding and are a major threat during cyclones.
Impacts of Cyclonic Precipitation
1. Flooding: Cyclonic precipitation often leads to severe flooding,
causing widespread damage to infrastructure, homes, and
agriculture.
2. Storm Surges: Strong winds and low pressure can generate storm
surges, resulting in coastal flooding and erosion.

3. Landslides: Excessive rainfall on steep terrain can trigger

landslides, posing a significant threat to communities.

4. Environmental Effects: Cyclonic precipitation can disrupt

ecosystems, lead to water pollution, and erode soil.
APPLICATION
1. Early Warning Systems: Meteorologists and hydrologists use knowledge
of cyclonic precipitation to develop early warning systems for
potential flood events. By monitoring weather patterns and
precipitation forecasts, they can alert communities and authorities well
in advance, allowing for timely evacuation and preparations.
2. Rainfall Intensity Analysis: Cyclonic precipitation often leads to intense
and sustained rainfall. To assess flood risk, engineers and hydrologists
analyze rainfall intensity data and its spatial distribution. This
information helps determine which areas are most likely to experience
flooding during a cyclone.
3. Floodplain Mapping: Cyclonic precipitation data is used to update and
create floodplain maps. These maps outline the areas susceptible to
flooding during cyclones and help local governments and emergency
services plan evacuation routes and allocate resources accordingly.
4. Infrastructure Design and Resilience: Engineers and urban planners
consider cyclonic precipitation patterns when designing infrastructure,
such as drainage systems and levees. Properly designed systems can
mitigate the impact of heavy rainfall and reduce the risk of flooding in
urban areas.
REFERANCE
 Engineering Hydrology R. Srivastava and A. Jain.
 Applied Hydrology V. T. Chow, D. Maidment, L. Mays.