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Plant Science Today (PST)

Review Articles

Vol. 12 No. sp1 (2025): Recent Advances in Agriculture by Young Minds - II

Review on evolving cyclone patterns in Bay of Bengal: Challenges for coastal agriculture

DOI
https://doi.org/10.14719/pst.11369
Submitted
20 August 2025
Published
16-10-2025

Abstract

Tropical cyclones (TCs) are among the most destructive weather phenomena. This review examines the trends and drivers of TC activity, focusing on the Bay of Bengal (BoB) region. Rising global temperatures have led to warmer sea surface temperature, a key factor in TC formation and intensification. The BoB experiences an average of 5-6 cyclone annually, with peak activity in May, October and November. But pre-monsoon cyclonic storms are fewer, a higher proportion of them intensify into severe storms. Overall cyclone frequency has declined; however, their intensity and duration have increased, potentially due to climate change. Climate oscillations like the Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) and El Nino Southern Oscillation (ENSO) significantly influence TC variability. La Nina, Negative IOD phase and the convective phase of the Madden–Julian Oscillation (MJO) enhance conditions favourable for cyclone development. These changing patterns have profound implications for agriculture in the BoB region. Cyclones often coincide with critical crop stages, causing severe yield losses. Understanding the influence of climate drivers such as ENSO and IOD on tropical cyclone activity in the Bay of Bengal is essential for developing region-specific adaptation strategies, including climate-resilient agriculture, early warning systems and sustainable land use. Future research should integrate long-term monitoring, high-resolution modelling and remote sensing to assess cyclone variability and impacts on coastal ecosystems. Emphasis on ecosystem resilience and nature-based solutions such as mangrove restoration will be critical to strengthen adaptive management, disaster preparedness and resilience under climate change-driven cyclone risks

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