Floods, droughts, and cyclones have become more frequent in India since 2000
Context: Extreme climate events have increased significantly across India since the turn of the millenium, according to a recent report.
- Before 2005, eight districts were affected by cyclones annually on an average. This figure increased to 28 after 2005.
- Floods, droughts, and cyclones have become increasingly common in many regions across India’s diverse climatic zones.
- Worryingly, some flood-prone districts are becoming drought-prone or vice-versa in a short period.
Floods
- The chart shows the number of floods (left axis) and the number of districts affected by floods (right axis).
- Between 1970 and 2004, three floods occurred per year on an average. However, between 2005 and 2019, the yearly average rose to 11.
- Similarly, 19 districts were affected annually on an average until 2005. After 2005, the number jumped to 55.
Droughts
- The chart shows the number of extreme droughts (left axis) and the number of districts affected (right axis).
- Since 2000, there has been a sharp increase in the number of drought-hit districts.
- However, droughts have been better managed in recent years, resulting in less loss and damage.
Cyclones
- The chart shows the number of cyclones (left axis) and the number of districts affected (right axis).
- Before 2005, eight districts were affected by cyclones annually on an average. This figure increased to 28 after 2005.
- Puri, Chennai, Nellore, North 24 Parganas, Ganjam, Cuttack, East Godavari, and Srikakulum are cyclone hotspots.
Changing patterns
- The map depicts the floodprone districts which turned drought-prone and vice-versa.
- The number of floodprone districts that started experiencing droughts was higher than those that did the opposite.
- The flood to drought shift was most prevalent in the southern States.