The India Meteorological Department (IMD) dedicates Cyclone Warning and Marine Weather Services Decision Support System (DSS), an interactive WebGIS-based platform, to the nation on 12th October 2026. The launch took place during the bi-annual Pre-Cyclone Exercise Meeting for the post-monsoon season (October-December), 2026 under the chairmanship of Dr. Mrutyunjay Mohapatra, Director General of Meteorology, IMD and 3rd Vice President of World Meteorological Organisation. The above DSS platform for public is available on IMD website (www.mausam.imd.gov.in) and Regional Specialised Meteorological Centre (RSMC) website (www.rsmcnewdelhi.imd.gov.in). The url of the above web-based platform is given below:
https://dss.imd.gov.in/dwr_img/GIS/marine.php
DSS demonstrating observed & forecast track & intensity alongwith cone of uncertainty and district-wise rainfall warning
The DSS is a user-friendly, interactive platform that brings critical cyclone and marine weather information together in one place, making it easier for users, including disaster management authorities, government agencies and the general public, to understand potential hazards and their likely impacts. Through interactive maps and visualisations of cyclone tracks, intensity, winds, rainfall, storm surge and rainfall forecasts for river catchments, the platform helps users access relevant information and make informed decisions. It aims to bridge the gap between weather forecasts and their practical use, enabling better preparedness, timely action and enhanced public safety during cyclones and other severe weather events.
DSS demonstrating observed & forecast track & intensity alongwith wind distribution and district-wise rainfall warning
The occasion holds special significance as IMD successfully predicted Very Severe Cyclonic Storm Phailin (2013) and Very Severe Cyclonic Storm Hudhud (2014) (both incidentally crossed coast on 12th October, 2013 and 2014 respectively) and marked important milestones in India’s disaster preparedness, earning international recognition for the country’s early-warning capabilities.
IMD has been conducting this meeting bi-annually since 2008. The exercise serves as a vital platform for reviewing preparedness for the ensuing cyclone season, assessing progress on previous action points, sharing IMD’s latest initiatives and addressing operational challenges. It also fosters close liaison and coordination among IMD, disaster management authorities, defence forces, state governments and other user agencies, ensuring that forecasts and warnings are effectively utilised for timely action on the ground.
The meeting witnessed participation from more than 30 organisations across the country, with approximately 230 participants, including 180 joining online and 50 attending in person. The participating organisations included the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), Indian Navy (IN), Indian Air Force (IAF), Indian Coast Guard (ICG), Central Water Commission (CWC), Press Information Bureau (PIB), state disaster management authorities and fisheries departments. Scientific and technical organisations included the India Meteorological Department (IMD), National Centre for Medium Range Weather Forecasting (NCMRWF) and Indian Institute of Technology (IIT). Representatives from coastal states and Union Territories, including West Bengal, Odisha, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Kerala, Karnataka, Goa, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Lakshadweep, Daman & Diu, Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Puducherry also participated. Delegates from various ministries and departments, including the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Ministry of Heavy Industries, Department of Consumer Affairs, Directorate General of Light House & Light Ships (DGLL), and other sectoral stakeholders, attended the meeting. The participation provided an important platform for strengthening inter-agency coordination, sharing operational requirements and enhancing preparedness for the upcoming cyclone season.
The meeting commenced with a presentation on the activities and recent advancements of the IMD in the field of cyclone warning and marine weather services, followed by a review of the Action Taken Report on the recommendations of the Pre-Cyclone Exercise Meeting held in April. A live demonstration of the newly launched, user-oriented Decision Support System (DSS) showcased its interactive features and capabilities to provide location-specific information on cyclones and associated hazards. The demonstration was followed by valuable comments, suggestions and feedback from participating stakeholders, aimed at further improving the platform and enhancing its operational utility.
The meeting reaffirmed IMD’s commitment to strengthening early-warning services, enhancing inter-agency coordination and translating accurate forecasts into timely action to minimise loss of life and property during cyclones.
A total of 230 Disaster Managers and stakeholders participated in the meeting