As a result of global warming the frequency and severity of which of the following is/are increasing?

The answer is D. Warmer oceans add heat and moisture to the atmosphere, which intensifies tropical storm systems. IPCC AR6 (2021) notes that the share of intense tropical cyclones (Category 4 and 5) has risen over recent decades, with heavier rainfall linked to them. The core concept is that global warming mainly changes the intensity and proportion of extreme storms, not just their count. This links to the Environment and Disaster Management syllabus and to Mains questions on coastal vulnerability and NDMA's approach to cyclone preparedness.

• Cyclones: Tropical cyclones are the regional term for these systems in the Bay of Bengal and Arabian Sea, and their rising intensity is well documented.
• Storms: Storms in a warmer, moister atmosphere also grow more severe, so this statement is valid.
• Hurricanes: Hurricanes are the same phenomenon as tropical cyclones, found in the Atlantic and eastern Pacific. Their intensification is also documented.

Trap: Aspirants pick C because hurricanes are the most familiar example. Since A, B and C are all valid, D is the only option that covers everything.