Harnessing geography: How Odisha's natural and man-made features mitigate cyclone impacts

Odisha, located on the eastern coast of India, frequently faces tropical cyclones from the Bay of Bengal, with notable events including the 1999 Super Cyclone, Cyclone Phailin (2013), and Cyclone Fani (2019). These cyclones have highlighted Odisha’s vulnerability due to its geographic location, prompting significant advancements in disaster management strategies. This mini-review examines the geographical advantages and human interventions that mitigate cyclone impacts in Odisha. Natural features such as coastal geomorphology and mangrove forests, along with human-made systems including advanced meteorological tools, early warning systems, and resilient infrastructure, play crucial roles in reducing cyclone damage. The review includes a case study of Cyclone Fani, demonstrating the effectiveness of these strategies. Despite severe impacts, the combined efforts of natural and human-made interventions significantly mitigated damage and casualties. The study concludes that enhancing mangrove conservation, upgrading early warning systems, and investing in resilient infrastructure are vital for future cyclone preparedness. Continuous adaptation to climatic changes and innovative disaster risk management strategies are essential to maintain Odisha's resilience against severe cyclonic events. Future research should focus on integrating advanced technologies with traditional knowledge to develop comprehensive and sustainable disaster management frameworks.