Why in news?
Recently, a deep depression over the Strait of Malacca has intensified, leading to weather alerts including heavy rain warnings for the surrounding region. This weather disturbance is being closely monitored by meteorological agencies due to its potential to develop into a cyclone.              
 
What is deep depression?

• A "deep depression" in meteorology is a type of cyclonic disturbance characterized by a low-pressure system where the maximum sustained surface wind speeds range between 28 to 33 knots (approximately 50 to 61 km/h).
• It is stronger than a regular depression, where wind speeds are lower (17 to 27 knots), but not as strong as a cyclonic storm.
• Deep depressions are intense low-pressure areas represented on weather charts with closely spaced isobars and typically bring heavy rain and strong winds.
• Such systems are important in tropical meteorology, especially over oceanic regions like the North Indian Ocean, where they can potentially intensify into cyclones under favorable conditions.
• Deep depressions are closely monitored as they can cause significant weather disturbances including heavy rainfall, strong winds, and high seas that impact coastal areas and maritime activities.

  

Feature	Deep Depression	Cyclone
Wind Speed	28-33 knots (50-61 km/h)	≥34 knots (≥62 km/h)
Pressure Level	Low-pressure system, higher than cyclone	Very low-pressure system, lower than deep depression
Intensity	Moderate cyclone intensity	High intensity, can cause severe damage
Rainfall	Brings heavy rain	Can bring very heavy to torrential rainfall
Formation Stage	Pre-cyclone or intermediate stage	Developed cyclone stage
Effect on Environment	Strong winds and rain, some disruption	Strong winds, heavy rain, storm surge, widespread disruption
Monitoring	Monitored for potential intensification	Closely monitored for disaster preparedness

Download Pdf