IMD cyclone warning colours: what yellow, orange and red mean
IMD's cyclone-warning stages use yellow for cyclone alert, orange for cyclone warning and red for post-landfall outlook. The issue time and bulletin text still matter.
The IMD Regional Specialised Meteorological Centre lists yellow for Cyclone Alert, orange for Cyclone Warning and red for Post-Landfall Outlook in its four-stage cyclone warning system. These labels should not be confused with every colour used on general weather maps.
The cyclone-specific four-stage system
The IMD page describes four stages: pre-cyclone watch, cyclone alert, cyclone warning and post-landfall outlook. It lists yellow for the cyclone alert, orange for the cyclone warning and red for the post-landfall outlook. Bulletins carry the current location, forecast track, wind intensity, rainfall, storm-surge information where applicable and advice for the public.
Why a colour alone is not enough
A warning colour is a summary, not a complete forecast. Read the affected district or coastal stretch, valid period, expected hazard and recommended action. General weather-warning graphics may use a different legend for watch, alert and warning; do not transfer a colour meaning from one product to another without checking its key.
Where to find the authoritative version
Use the IMD bulletin page and its issue time. If a state government or district administration issues evacuation or shelter instructions, follow those local directions. Social posts and screenshots can be cropped or outdated, so open the live source before sharing a warning.
AI publication disclosure
This article was prepared with AI assistance and published through DailyScope's automated workflow. Sources are linked so readers can check the original evidence. Automated publication does not guarantee that every detail is error-free; use the correction link if a source or date appears wrong.
Frequently asked questions
Does red always mean the same thing on every IMD map?
No. The cyclone-specific stage labels and general weather-warning products can use different legends. Read the key on the actual product.
Where can I check the cyclone-warning stage?
Use the IMD Regional Specialised Meteorological Centre's four-stage warning page and the latest cyclone bulletin.