The Albanese Factor Behind Tropical Cyclone Alfred’s Last-Minute Name Change
Tropical Cyclone Alfred, which recently hit the Australian coast, almost had a different name – Cyclone Anthony. However, a last-minute switch by the Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) changed the course of history.
Bureau of Meteorology’s Approved List of Cyclone Names
The BoM maintains a carefully curated list of alphabetical names for cyclones, which is divided into five sections. Each section is used sequentially, with names assigned in order.
The Name Change from Anthony to Alfred
After Cyclone Zelia completed the previous section of the list, the next scheduled name was Anthony. However, due to a potential confusion with prominent figures sharing the same name, the BoM decided to switch to the next name starting with the same letter – Alfred.
A spokesperson from the BoM explained, "When a name matches a prominent person of the time, we reorder to the next name starting with that same letter to avoid any confusion."
Prime Minister’s Response
When Prime Minister Anthony Albanese was asked about his potential involvement in the name change, he denied any role in the decision. He stated, "The names of these things are beyond … my government didn’t legislate on any of those things. I think they just go through a range of names."
Albanese further acknowledged the importance of avoiding confusion in communication during natural disasters, remarking, "It does kind of make sense."
The Fate of the Name Anthony
As a result of the name change, the name Anthony has been pushed down the list and is now scheduled to be used 41 cyclones after Alfred.
History of Cyclone Naming
The BoM established a policy for cyclone naming in 1963, initially using only female names until 1975. The list of names is approved by neighboring countries within the World Meteorological Organization Regional Tropical Cyclone Committees to prevent duplication and maintain consistency in naming conventions.
Future Name Changes
Looking ahead, another potential name change looms on the horizon. The next name selected for the letter "P" is Peta, which bears a striking resemblance in pronunciation to Opposition leader Peter Dutton.
Residents in affected areas, such as Capalaba near Brisbane, were seen preparing for Cyclone Alfred’s arrival by sandbagging and taking necessary precautions.
By adhering to a systematic and thoughtful approach to cyclone naming, the BoM ensures clarity and consistency in communication during severe weather events.
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In conclusion, the story behind the last-minute name change of Tropical Cyclone Alfred to Anthony sheds light on the meticulous processes and considerations involved in cyclone naming. By prioritizing clarity and avoiding confusion, the BoM ensures effective communication during critical weather events. As the cyclone naming conventions evolve, it is essential to maintain a balance between tradition and adaptability to uphold the integrity of the system.
FAQ
- Who decides the names of cyclones?
The Bureau of Meteorology maintains a list of approved cyclone names, which are selected in alphabetical order and approved by neighboring countries. - Why was the name of Cyclone Alfred changed to Anthony?
The decision to change the name from Alfred to Anthony was made to avoid potential confusion with prominent figures sharing the same name.