Accurate extreme event prediction may well be the prerequisite to survival in the modern world—yes, the forewarned is forearmed. Intense climatic anomaly can lead to situations that can kill thousands—the Kashmir flashfloods, the Uttarakhand cloudburst and the Ladakh mudflow. Nature is being naughty no doubt, but man is naughtier—disregarding all the rules nature plays by. And, until the time fortuitous planning is avoided, prediction may be the only key to long life.

This issue of G’nY is dedicated to tropical cyclones in India. We have run a detailed point by point account of what India can achieve if scientists, planners and implementors all work in tandem. Cyclone Phailin is a turning point in Indian history, but the lessons learnt need urgent replication. The capacity of coastal population to envisage danger and respond to it has been impeccably built. However, floods still catch us unawares. The day common man can access warnings issued and can respond to it immediately, is when India will be truly forearmed.

This issue has been by far the most rewarding. With the staid guidance of Dr Ajit Tyagi and the effervescent enthusiasm of Dr M Mohapatra the magazine has achieved new heights. We deeply thank them for their kindness.

Happy reading.