Classification of Cyclones:
The Indian Meteorological Department(IMD)’s criterion to classify the cyclones is based upon the method adopted by the World Meteorological Organisation(WMO). The classification is:
Type of Disturbances (and Associated Wind Speed in the Circulation):
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Low-pressure Area: Wind Speed less than 17 knots (<31 kmph)
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Depression: 17 to 27 knots (31 to 49 kmph)
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Deep Depression: 28 to 33 knots (50 to 61 kmph)
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Cyclonic storm: 34 to 47 knots (62 to 88 kmph)
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Severe Cyclonic Storm: 48 to 63 knots (89 to 118 kmph)
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Very Severe Cyclonic Storm: 64 to 119 knots (119 to 221 kmph)
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Super Cyclonic Storm: 119 knots and above (221 kmph and above).