IMD Launches WebGIS Cyclone and Marine Weather Decision Support System

What happened

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) launched its Cyclone Warning and Marine Weather Services Decision Support System (DSS) at the biannual Pre-Cyclone Exercise Meeting for the October–December 2026 post-monsoon season.

Key facts

• Launch: 12 October 2026. Authority: IMD under the Ministry of Earth Sciences.
• The DSS is an interactive WebGIS-based platform for disaster-management authorities, government agencies and the public.
• The public platform is linked by IMD at the official DSS.
• The official release identifies cyclone track and intensity, wind, rainfall, storm surge, river-catchment rainfall forecasts and district-wise warnings as information displayed.
• The pre-cyclone exercise meeting addressed the October–December 2026 season; IMD says the biannual meeting has taken place since 2008.
• The release recalls IMD forecasts of Cyclones Phailin (2013) and Hudhud (2014); it does not announce a new cyclone.

Why it matters

Map-based hazard information can help turn forecasts into usable preparedness and response information for coastal authorities and communities. This is an example of disaster-risk management and public weather services.

Exam takeaway

Connect IMD to the Ministry of Earth Sciences. A decision-support platform displays and integrates forecasts; it is not a new weather satellite and cannot prevent cyclones.