Orange Alert: What It Means and How to Prepare for It
If you live in India, you may have heard of the term “orange alert” in relation to the weather forecast. But what does it mean and how should you react to it? We will explain the meaning, significance, and implications of the orange alert issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) for various weather phenomena.
What is an Orange Alert?
An orange alert is a type of weather warning issued by the IMD when there is a high probability of severe weather conditions that may cause significant damage or disruption to life and property. An orange alert is one level below the red alert, which is the highest level of warning indicating extreme weather conditions that require immediate action. An orange alert is one level above the yellow alert, which is a low-level warning indicating that people should be aware and updated about the weather situation.
The IMD uses different colour codes for different weather phenomena, such as rainfall, thunderstorm, lightning, heatwave, cold wave, fog, etc. The criteria for assigning the colour codes depend on various factors, such as the intensity, duration, frequency, spatial extent, impact assessment, and probability of occurrence of the weather event. The IMD also considers the local factors, such as the topography, land use, population density, infrastructure, etc., while deciding the colour code for a specific location.
What are the Implications of an Orange Alert?
An orange alert means that people should be prepared for the possible adverse effects of the weather event and take necessary precautions to avoid any harm or loss. An orange alert also means that the relevant authorities and agencies should be ready to take appropriate action to mitigate the impact of the weather event and ensure public safety and welfare.
For example, an orange alert for heavy rainfall means that there is a possibility of flooding, landslides, waterlogging, traffic disruption, power outage, etc., in some areas. In such a case, people should avoid venturing out unnecessarily, stay away from water bodies and low-lying areas, keep their valuables and documents safe, follow the instructions of the local administration, and seek help if needed.
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Similarly, an orange alert for heatwave means that there is a possibility of high temperatures that may cause heat-related illnesses, such as dehydration, heat exhaustion, heat stroke, etc., in some areas. In such a case, people should avoid exposure to direct sunlight, drink plenty of fluids, wear light and loose clothing, use fans or coolers, avoid strenuous activities, and seek medical attention if needed.
How to Stay Updated on Orange Alerts?
The IMD issues regular updates on the weather forecast and warnings through various channels, such as its website [www.imd.gov.in], its mobile app [Mausam], its social media handles [Twitter] and [Facebook], its toll-free number 1800-180-1717, and its regional offices across the country. People can also access the information through various media outlets, such as newspapers, radio stations, TV channels, etc., that disseminate the IMD’s bulletins.
The IMD also provides district-wise and subdivision-wise alerts for different weather phenomena on its website [www.rsmcnewdelhi.imd.gov.in], where people can check the colour code and status of their respective areas. People can also subscribe to SMS or email alerts from the IMD by registering on its website [www.imd.gov.in].
Conclusion
An orange alert is a type of weather warning issued by the IMD when there is a high probability of severe weather conditions that may cause significant damage or disruption to life and property. An orange alert means that people should be prepared for the possible adverse effects of the weather event and take necessary precautions to avoid any harm or loss. An orange alert also means that the relevant authorities and agencies should be ready to take appropriate action to mitigate the impact of the weather event and ensure public safety and welfare. People can stay updated on the orange alerts issued by the IMD through various channels and sources.
