How cyclones are named?

Cyclones are named through a standardized, international process managed by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and its regional bodies. Each region that experiences tropical cyclones maintains a pre-approved and rotating list of names proposed by the meteorological services of member countries. Names are chosen for being familiar, easy to pronounce, and culturally appropriate within the region, and are not repeated across other cyclone-prone regions.

Naming Process

• Names are decided by regional tropical cyclone committees under the WMO, with lists submitted and agreed upon by all member countries in the region.
• When a new cyclone reaches a predefined intensity (such as gale-force winds), the responsible regional center assigns the next name from the list in sequential order.
• These names aid communication, reduce confusion, and make warnings more memorable for the public.

Regional Examples

• In the North Indian Ocean (Bay of Bengal, Arabian Sea): The list is created by contributions from countries like India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Myanmar, etc. Names are used sequentially as per the list, and are typically neutral in meaning.
• In the Atlantic and other basins: Names are recycled every few years unless a particular cyclone is so deadly or costly that its name is retired from use for sensitivity reasons.