Physical Geography Fujiwhara Effect Two potential cyclonic storms are forming in the Bay of Bengal, with global forecast models indicating a possible Fujiwhara interaction between them. About Fujiwhara Effect: It is a rare meteorological phenomenon where two nearby cyclonic systems begin to rotate around a common centre due to interaction of their wind circulations. Identified by Sakuhei Fujiwhara (1921), it occurs mostly in the tropical cyclone belt when storms are within ~1,400 km of each other. Conditions necessary for the effect to occur: Two tropical cyclones formed around the same time in the same ocean region. The distance between the centres (or eyes) of the cyclones is less than 1,400 km. An intensity that could vary between a depression (wind speed under 63 km/hour) and a super typhoon (wind speed over 209 km/hour). Hayli Gubbi Volcano A massive volcanic ash cloud from Ethiopia’s Hayli Gubbi volcano—which erupted after nearly 10,000 years—has drifted toward India, raising concerns over air quality and aviation. Hayli Gubbi is a shield volcano in Ethiopia’s Afar Region, known for broad, gently sloping volcanic structures formed by low-viscosity basaltic lava typical of the East African Rift system. Impact on India: Air Quality: Ash is at high altitudes, limiting ground-level mixing; Delhi is unlikely to see major AQI deterioration. Skies may appear hazy/darker but pollutants will remain mostly aloft. Health & Climate: SO₂ can contribute to acid rain regionally, but concentrations over India appear limited. Volcanic particles may briefly affect solar radiation and visibility. Environment and ecology Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA)'s Study Report A new analysis shows that 60% of India’s districts (447 out of 749) experience year-round exposure to unhealthy levels of PM2.5 air pollution, not just in winter. None of the districts met the WHO air quality guideline of 5 µg/m³…
